WOMEN Ort,THE itkBLE

AID TO MORE EFFICIENT SABBATH SCHOOLS

rimary 5rectittre

An attractive paper containing the Sabbath school lesson and stories for chil-

dren up to ten years of age.

* * *

THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY

"The beauty and riches of the word have a transforming influence on mind

and character."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 132.

"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study

of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give

vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's

word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a

nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times."—

Steps to Christ,

page go.

My Daily Lesson Study Pledge

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I

pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab-

bath school lesson each day of the week.

Name

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LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER

t. Eve, "The Mother of All Living"

Sarah and Hagar

Rebekah, Wife From a Far Country

Rachel and Leah

Miriam the Prophetess

Rahab; Deborah

Ruth the Moabitess

Hannah; Rizpah

"That Woman Jezebel"

to. Esther, the Persian Queen

t. Mary, the Mother of Jesus

12.

Martha and Mary

13.

Women of the Early Church

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 269, July-September, 1962. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a

year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A.

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California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a change of

address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.

Printed in U.S.A.

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

WOMEN OF THE BIBLE

General Introduction

"Woman should fill the position which

God originally designed for her, as her

husband's equal. The world needs moth-

ers who are mothers not merely in name

but in every sense of the word. We may

safely say that the distinctive duties of

woman are more sacred, more holy, than

those of man. Let woman realize the

sacredness of her work and in the strength

and fear of God take up her life mission.

Let her educate her children for usefulness

in this world and for a home in the better

world. . . .

"The king upon his throne has no higher

work than has the mother. The mother is

queen of her household. She has

her

power the molding of her children's char-

acters, that they may be fitted for the

higher, immortal life. An angel could not

ask for a higher mission; for in doing this

work she is doing service for God. Let her

only realize the high character of her task,

and it will inspire her with courage. Let

her realize the worth of her work and put

on the whole armor of God, that she may

resist the temptation to conform to the

world's standard. Her work is for time and

for eternity."—The

Adventist Home,

pages

231,

232. Here is good counsel for every

mother today.

Lesson 1, for July 7, 1962

Eve, "The Mother of All Living"

MEMORY VERSE:

"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be

alone;

will make him an help meet for him." Gen.

2:18.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 44-62 (chapters 2, 3); "S.D.A. Bi-

ble Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.

Monday: Questions 4-7.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-11.

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 12-14; begin

reading Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Helps.



❑

III. The Temptation and Fall

The single restriction. Gen.

2:16, 17.

The voice of the tempter. Gen. 3:1.

Talking with the serpent. Gen.

3:2-6.

22.



10. The tragic results. Gen. 3:7.

11. Self-justification. Gen. 3:12, 13.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Creation of Eve

A helpmate. Gen. 2:18-20.

Created from a rib. Gen. 2:21,

II. The First Marriage and the Ideal

Home

Words of welcome. Gen. 2:23.

The bonds of love. Eph. 5:28.

The sacredness of marriage. Matt.

19:3-6.

The Eden home. Gen. 2:15.

IV. The First Prophecy of Scripture

12.

A ray of hope. Gen. 3:15.

13.

The lot of Eve. Gen. 3:16.

14.

Eve's children-her hope of

promise fulfilled. Gen. 4:1, 2;

5:3,

THE LESSON

"Man was not made to dwell in solitude;

he was to be a social being. Without com-

panionship the beautiful scenes and de-

lightful employments of Eden would have

failed to yield perfect happiness. Even

communion with angels could not have

satisfied his desire for sympathy and com-

panionship. There was none of the same

nature to love and to be

loved."-Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 46.

What did the Creator then pro-

ceed to do? Gen. 2:21, 22.

Introduction

"As Adam came forth from the hand of

his Creator, he was of noble height, and of

beautiful symmetry. He was more than

twice as tall as men now living upon the

earth and was well proportioned. His

features were perfect and beautiful. His

complexion was neither white, nor sallow,

but ruddy, glowing with the rich tint of

health. Eve was not quite as tall as Adam.

Her head reached a little above his shoul-

ders. She, too, was noble-perfect in sym-

metry, and very beautiful."-Spirit

Prophecy,

page 25 (1870 ed.).

"Our first parents, though created in-

nocent and holy, were not placed beyond

the possibility of wrongdoing. God made

them free moral agents, capable of appreci-

ating the wisdom and benevolence of His

character and the justice of His require-

ments, and with full liberty to yield or to

withhold obedience. They were to enjoy

communion with God and with holy an-

gels; but before they could be rendered

eternally secure, their loyalty must be

tested."-Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 48.

The Creation of Eve

1. After God had created every-

thing else, what did He say was still

needful for man? Gen. 2:18-20.

NOTE.-A "help meet for him," or a help-

mate; that is, someone fit or suitable; a

counterpart or companion. Each was to

he suited to the other's needs.

NoTE.-Skeptics may ridicule this story,

yet it is simple, beautiful, and full of mean-

ing. "Eve was created from a rib taken

from the side of Adam, signifying that

she was not to control him as the head, nor

to be trampled under his feet as an in-

ferior, but to stand by his side as an equal,

to be loved and protected by him. A part

of man, bone of his bone, and flesh of his

flesh, she was his second self, showing the

close union and the affectionate attachment

that should exist in this

relation."-Patri-

archs and Prophets,

page 46.

The First Marriage and the

Ideal Home

What did Adam say when God

presented his companion to him?

Gen.

2:23.

[

NOTE.—"In joyful astonishment, his

[Adam's] eye now rested with the intense

thrill of first love. Instinctively, or, as the

result of divine instruction, he recognized

in her part of his own being. He was

henceforth to love her as his own body,

for in loving her he loves himself."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 2:23.

In what words does Paul indi-

cate this close marital relationship?

Eph. 5:28.

How did Christ stress the sacred-

ness of the marriage covenant? Matt.

19:3-6.

NOTE.—"These words express the deep-

est physical and spiritual unity of man and

woman, and hold up monogamy before the

world as the form of marriage ordained

by God."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Gen. 2:24.

What ideal home was provided

for our first parents? Gen. 2:15.

NOTE.—"Everything that God had made

was the perfection of beauty, and nothing

seemed wanting that could contribute to the

happiness of the holy pair; yet the Creator

gave them still another token of His love,

by preparing a garden especially for their

home. In this garden were trees of every

variety, many of them laden with fragrant

and delicious fruit. . . . It was the work

of Adam and Eve to train the branches of

the vine to form bowers, thus making for

themselves a dwelling from living trees

covered with foliage and fruit. There were

fragrant flowers of every hue in rich pro-

fusion."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages

46, 47.

The Temptation and Fall

What single restriction was

placed upon the dwellers in Eden?

Gen. 2:16, 17.

NOTE.—"Our first parents were not left

without a warning of the danger that

threatened them. Heavenly messengers

opened to them the history of Satan's fall

and his plots for their destruction."—Patri-

archs

and Prophets,

page 52.

On one occasion, what voice did

Eve hear? Gen. 3:1.

NoTE.—The expression, "Yea, hath God

said?" was a subtle and malicious insinua-

tion of doubt.

After conversing with the ser-

pent, how did Eve regard the tree,

and what did she do? Gen. 3:2-6.

NoTE.—In this brief contact with Eve,

Satan, the "accuser of the brethren,"

charged God with falsehood, envy, and a

lack of love and wisdom. The expression

translated, "Ye shall be as gods," may be

rendered correctly, "Ye shall be as God."

This reveals the blasphemous nature of Sa-

tan's charge and the appalling nature of

his deception.

The appearance of the tree fascinated

Eve. It appealed to her taste, to her eye,

and to her desire for wisdom. In part, the

temptation of Eve was similar to that

which Christ faced in the wilderness; but

where she failed, He overcame.

10.

As a result of disobedience,

what immediately occurred? Gen. 3:7.

NoTE.—"The love and peace which had

been theirs was gone, and in its place they

felt a sense of sin, a dread of the future, a

nakedness of soul. The robe of light which

had enshrouded them, now disappeared,

and to supply its place they endeavored to

fashion for themselves a covering; for they

could not, while unclothed, meet the eye

of God and holy

angels."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

page 57.

11.

What reply did Adam give,

then Eve, when questioned by God?

Gen. 3:12, 13.

NorE.—"When the Lord inquired con-

cerning their sin, Adam replied, laying the

guilt partly upon God and partly upon his

companion. . . . The woman put the blame

upon the serpent. . . . Why did You make

the serpent? Why did You suffer him to

come into Eden? These were the questions

implied in her excuse for her sin, thus

charging God with the responsibility of

their fall. The spirit of self-justification

originated in the father of lies, and has

been exhibited by all the sons and daugh-

ters of Adam. Confessions of this order

are not inspired by the divine Spirit, and

will not be acceptable to God. True re-

pentance will lead a man to bear his guilt

himself, and acknowledge it without de-

ception or hypocrisy."—Steps

to Christ,

page 40.

The First Prophecy of Scripture

12.

Before passing sentence upon

the man and woman, what words did

God speak to the serpent that gave

hope and promise to Eve and her hus-

band? Gen. 3:15.

NoTE.—From that day to this there has

been conflict between Satan and his fol-

lowers, and Christ and His people. Fiercely

and without interruption the conflict has

raged; but on Calvary's cross our Saviour

triumphed. Satan's death knell was sounded,

and, according to this prophecy, he will at

length be destroyed.

13.

Because of her sin, what was

imposed upon Eve? Gen.

3 : 16.

NOTE.—"Eve had been perfectly happy

by her husband's side in her Eden home;

but, like restless modern Eves, she was

flattered with the hope of entering a higher

sphere than that which God had assigned

her. In attempting to rise above her orig-

inal position, she fell far below it. A

similar result will be reached by all who are

unwilling to take up cheerfully their life

duties in accordance with God's plan. . . .

In their desire for a higher sphere, many

have sacrificed true womanly dignity and

nobility of character."—Patriarchs

and

Prophets,

page 59.

14.

Following the expulsion from

Eden, what is recorded of Eve? Gen.

4:1, 2; 5:3, 4.

NOTE.—"I

have gotten a man from the

Lord.

The Hebrew reads literally, 'I have

gotten a man, the Lord.' When

—

Eve held

her first-born in her arms she apparently

remembered the divine promise of ch. 3:15,

and entertaining the hope that he was to

be the promised Deliverer, named him

Qayin,

'gotten' (DA 31). Forlorn hope!

Her eager longing for the speedy fulfillment

of the gospel promise was doomed to meet

the most heartbreaking disappointment.

Little did she realize that this very child

would become the world's first murderer."

—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 4:1.

Aside from these brief references, noth-

ing is known concerning the life of the

mother of our race after her expulsion from

Eden, but we can learn from her tragic

mistakes.

"To Eve it seemed a small thing to dis-

obey God by tasting the fruit of the for-

bidden tree, and to tempt her husband also

to transgress; but their sin opened the

floodgates of woe upon the world. Who can

know, in the moment of temptation, the

terrible consequences that will result from

one wrong step

?"—Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,

page 61.

Thoughts for Meditation

Any raiment of my own righteousness

will afford me no protection. Only the

garment of Christ's righteousness, woven

in the loom of heaven, will suffice in that

day when I stand before the great Judge.

"The Sabbath school is a mis-

sionary field, and very much

more of the missionary spirit

should be manifested in this

important

work."—Counsels

on Sabbath School Work,

page 10.

[ 6 ]

Lesson 2, for July 14, 1962

Sarah and Hagar

MEMORY VERSE:

"Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive

seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she

judged Him faithful who had promised." Heb. 11:11.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 130, 138, 145-147, 370-373;

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon:



General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.

❑

Sunday:



Questions 1-3.

❑

Monday:



Questions 4-6.

❑

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions 7.10.

Wednesday: Questions 11-14.



❑

Thursday: Read Study Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. From Ur of the Chaldees

To Haran in Mesopotamia. Gen.

11:26-32.

Onward to Canaan. Gen. 12:4, 5.

The inspiring promise. Gen.

12:1-3 ; Heb. 11:8.

II. In Canaan and Egypt

Famine in the land. Gen. 12:10.

Disguising the truth. Gen. 12:11-13.

Perilous results. Gen. 12:14-20.

III. Sarah and Her Maid

A human proposal. Gen. 15:2, 3.

Another subterfuge. Gen. 16:1, 2.

Discord in the home. Gen. 16:5, 6.

10.

Hagar in the wilderness. Gen. 16:

7-13.

IV. The Promise and Fulfillment

11.

The covenant reaffirmed. Gen. 17:

15-17, 19.

12.

The gift of the promised son. Gen.

21:1, 6, 7.

13.

Hagar and Ishmael banished. Gen.

21:8-14.

V. The Two Covenants

14. An allegory. Gal. 4:22-31.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Because of their corruption and violence

multitudes of the depraved antediluvians

perished in the great Flood. But people for-

get so soon; and many years later, when

Abraham and Sarah lived in Ur of the Chal-

dees, the society was definitely pagan.

Idolatry and polygamy were prevalent; yet

faith in God was not totally extinct, and

Abraham was chosen as "the inheritor of

this holy trust." To fulfill the divine pur-

pose he was called to forsake country and

kindred and to journey to a distant land.

Sarah, his faithful wife (1 Peter 3:5, 6),

accompanied him on this great adventure

for God.

From Ur of the Chaldees

1. From the land of their nativity,

to what place did Abraham, Sarah,

and their company journey? Gen. 11:

26-32.

[7]

NOTE.—This was a pilgrimage of some

800 miles. Here in Haran they remained

for some years, during which time their

riches, flocks, and herds greatly increased.

Also, "during their stay in Haran, both

Abraham and Sarah had led others to the

worship and service of the true God. These

attached themselves to the patriarch's

household, and accompanied him to the

land of

promise."—Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,

page 127.

After the death of Terah, what

was Abraham bidden to do? Gen. 12:

4, 5.

Nora.—"From his father's grave the

divine Voice bade him [Abraham] go for-

ward. His brother Nahor with his house-

hold clung to their home and their idols.

Besides Sarah, the wife of Abraham, only

Lot, the son of Haran long since dead,

chose to share the patriarch's pilgrim life.

Yet it was a large company that set out

from Mesopotamia. Abraham already pos-

sessed extensive flocks and herds, the

riches of the East, and he was surrounded

by a numerous body of servants and re-

tainers. He was departing from the land

of his fathers, never to return, and he

took with him all that he had, 'their sub-

stance that they had gathered, and the

souls that they had gotten in Haran.'

"—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 127.

What divine promises inspired

them to continue on this hazardous

journey? Gen. 12:1-3; Heb. 11:8.

In Canaan and Egypt

After the family reached Canaan

what scourge came upon the land,

and what did the family do? Gen.

12:10.

On entering Egypt what misgiv-

ings troubled Abraham and Sarah,

and how did they reveal distrust in

God's keeping power? Gen. 12:11-13.

NOTE.—"During his stay in Egypt, Abra-

ham gave evidence that he was not free

from human weakness and imperfection.

In concealing the fact that Sarah was his

wife, he betrayed a distrust of the divine

care, a lack of that lofty faith and courage

so often and nobly exemplified in his life.

. . . He reasoned that he was not guilty of

falsehood in representing Sarah as his sis-

ter, for she was the daughter of his father,

though not of his mother. But this con-

cealment of the real relation between them

was deception. No deviation from strict

integrity can meet God's

approval."--Pa-

triarchs and Prophets,

page 130.

What dire results followed this

evasion of the real truth? Gen. 12:

14-20.

NoTE.—"Through Abraham's lack of

faith, Sarah was placed in great peril. The

king of Egypt, being informed of her

beauty, caused her to be taken to his palace,

intending to make her his wife. But the

Lord, in His great mercy, protected Sarah

by sending judgments upon the royal house-

hold. By this means the monarch learned

the truth in the matter, and, indignant at

the deception practiced upon him, he re-

proved Abraham and restored to him his

wife."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 130.

In humiliation they were expelled from

the country.

Sarah and Her Maid

As time passed and Sarah had

no son, to what distrust of the divine

promise did Abraham give expres-

sion? Gen. 15:2, 3.

NOTE.—It was proposed that their trusted

servant Eliezer should be adopted as son

and heir. But God gave the assurance

that the heir would be Abraham's

own son.

After a further period of wait-

ing, what plan did Sarah recommend?

Gen. 16:1, 2.

[

]

NoTE.—"Thinking it impossible that a

child should be given her in her old age,

Sarah suggested, as a plan by which the

divine purpose might be fulfilled, that one

of her handmaidens should be taken by

Abraham as a secondary wife. Polygamy

had become so widespread that it had

ceased to be regarded as a sin, but it was

no less a violation of the law of God, and

was fatal to the sacredness and peace of

the family relation. Abraham's marriage

with Hagar resulted in evil, not only to his

own household, but to future generations."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 145.

After Abraham's marriage to Ha-

gar, what troubles soon arose in the

home, and what did Hagar do? Gen.

16:5, 6.

10.

What experience came to Ha-

gar in the wilderness? Gen. 16:7-13.

NOTE.—"In the way to Shur." Hagar

had evidently traveled several days on the

way to her native Egypt (see Gen. 25:18; 1

Sam. 15:7) ; now she was to return and

submit meekly to her mistress. At the birth

of Ishmael, Abraham was eighty-six years

of age and Sarah was ten years younger.

During the next thirteen years they evi-

dently continued under the illusion that

Ishmael was the promised heir. See Gen.

17:1, 18.

The Promise and Fulfillment

11.

When Sarah was about ninety

years of age, what promise was re-

peated? Gen. 17:15-17, 19.

NOTE.—"In token of the fulfillment of

this covenant, his name, heretofore called

Abram, was changed to Abraham, which

signifies, 'father of a great multitude.'

Sarai's name became Sarah—`princess;' for,

said the divine Voice, 'she shall be a mother

of nations; kings of people shall be of

her.'

"—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 137,

138.

12.

At the birth of Isaac, what ex-

pression of joy came from the lips of

Sarah? Gen. 21:1, 6, 7.

13.

On the occasion when Isaac was

weaned, what incident disturbed the

peace of the family? with what re-

sult? Gen. 21:8-14.

NoTE.—Although Ishmael became an ex-

ile from his parental home, the promise of

God was nevertheless fulfilled (Gen. 16:10),

and his descendants, the Ishmaelites, were a

numerous people. Large numbers of Arabs

of today regard Ishmael as their great an-

cestor. As for Sarah, she lived until Isaac

was thirty-seven years of age, and was

buried in the cave of Machpelah. See Gen.

23:1, 19.

The Two Covenants

14.

In what way is the story of

Sarah, Hagar (or Agar), and their

sons employed to illustrate the two

covenants? Gal. 4:22-31.

NOTE.—Ishmael, son of the bondwoman,

was born "after the flesh." He came as the

result of human devisings and attempts to

fulfill the promise of God. He was a living

testimony to "works" without faith, a

symbol of the old covenant.

For nearly twenty-five years Sarah and

her husband had been anxious and ques-

tioning concerning the covenant promise ;

but at length faith triumphed; they be-

lieved God and He counted it to them for

righteousness. At last, when the fulfillment

appeared humanly impossible, there came

the miracle birth; and Isaac was pre-

eminently the son of faith and the gift

God. He was born of the freewoman, and

represented the new covenant.

Thoughts for Meditation

Am I living under the old covenant or the

new?

Have I "cast out the bondwoman and

her son"?

Do I run ahead of God's providences and

follow my own human devisings?

Sarah as well as Abraham led the mem-

bers of her household to the worship of

the living God. Do I do as well in my

home? See

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

144.

Lesson 3, for July 21, 1962

Rebekah, Wife From a Far Country

MEMORY VERSE:

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above

rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have

no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life."

Prov. 31:10-12.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 171-182; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1, 2; begin read-

ing Study Helps.



❑

Monday: Questions 3-6.



❑

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions 7-10.

Wednesday: Questions 11-14.

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Instructions to Eliezer

Abraham's deep concern. Gen.

24:1-3.

A pledge required. Gen. 24:4-9.

II. The Mission to Mesopotamia

Eliezer's prayer. Gen. 24 : 10-14.

The remarkable answer. Gen. 24:

15-21.

Visit in Rebekah's home. Gen. 24:

22-56.

"I will go." Gen. 24:57-60.

III. Home Life of Rebekah and Isaac

The happy meeting. Gen. 24:62-67.

The birth of twins. Gen. 25:20, 24.

Unwise favoritism. Gen. 25:27, 28.

10.

Sadness to the parents. Gen. 26:34,

35; 27:46.

IV. Deception and Its Bitter Con-

sequences

11.

A divine forecast. Gen. 25:21-23.

12.

Isaac's determination. Gen. 27:1-4.

13.

A resort to stratagem. Gen. 27:6-10.

14.

The bitter harvest. Gen. 27:41-45.

THE LESSON

Introduction

The longest chapter in the book of Gen-

esis is devoted entirely and in minute detail

to the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah.

Here is a charming and beautiful story. In

the narrative of the bridal mission, the 450-

mile trip by camel caravan to Padan-aram,

the chivalrous reception accorded to Eli-

ezer, and the romantic meeting of the two

young people on the return, all present a

lively picture of Oriental manners and cus-

toms in that primitive patriarchal age.

"For the first time since the sinless loves

of Eden were blasted, it shows us wedlock

receiving a fresh consecration. . . . Within

the shelter of God's covenant love grows

pure again.. . . The wooing of Rebekah

and her betrothal to Isaac are the earliest

in a happy series of Bible passages devoted

to the elevation of the marriage bond."-

Butler,

The Bible Work, vol.

1, pp.

406, 407.

[ 10 ]

Instructions to Eliezer

As Abraham was growing old,

what special burden rested upon his

heart? Gen. 24:1-3.

NOTE.—"The inhabitants of Canaan were

given to idolatry, and God had forbidden

intermarriage between His people and them,

knowing that such marriages would lead to

apostasy. . . In the mind of Abraham

the choice of a wife for his son was a mat-

ter of grave importance; he was anxious to

have him marry one who would not lead

him from

God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 171.

What specific instructions were

given to Eliezer, and what oath or

pledge did Abraham require? Gen.

24:4-9.

NOTE.—"Abraham committed the im-

portant matter to 'his eldest servant,' a

man of piety, experience, and sound judg-

ment, who had rendered him long and faith-

ful

service."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

172.

"Isaac, trusting to his father's wisdom

and affection, was satisfied to commit the

matter to him, believing also that God

Himself would direct in the choice made."

—Ibid., p. 171.

The Mission to Mesopotamia

As he was approaching the city

of Nahor, also known as Haran, what

prayer did Eliezer offer? Gen. 24:

10-14.

In what remarkable way was

this prayer answered? Gen. 24:15-21.

NOTE.—"Hardly was the prayer uttered

before the answer was given. Among the

women who were gathered at the well, the

courteous manners of one attracted his at-

tention. As she came from the well, the

stranger went to meet her, asking for some

water from the pitcher upon her shoulder.

The request received a kindly answer, with

an offer to draw water for the camels also,

a service which it was customary even for

the daughters of princes to perform for

their fathers' flocks and herds. Thus the

desired sign was given. The maiden 'was

very fair to look upon,' and her ready

courtesy gave evidence of a kind heart and

an active, energetic nature. Thus far the

divine hand had been with him. After

acknowledging her kindness by rich gifts,

the messenger asked her parentage, and on

learning that she was the daughter of

Bethuel, Abraham's nephew, he 'bowed

down his head, and worshiped the Lord.' "

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 172, 173.

Relate the various incidents in

the visit of Eliezer to the family of

Bethuel. Gen. 24:22-56.

What was Rebekah's response to

the proposal of marriage, and what

parting blessing was given her? Gen.

24:57-60.

Home Life of Rebekah and Isaac

Describe Rebekah's meeting with

Isaac. Gen. 24:62-67.

NOTE.—"The result of that marriage, as

presented in the Scriptures, is a tender and

beautiful picture of domestic happiness....

"What a contrast between the course of

Isaac and that pursued by the youth of our

time, even among professed Christians!

Young people too often feel that the be-

stowal of their affections is a matter in

which self alone should be consulted—a

matter that neither God nor their parents

should in any wise control. . . . Many have

thus wrecked their happiness in this life

and their hope of the life to come.

"If there is any subject which should be

carefully considered and in which the coun-

sel of older and more experienced persons

should be sought, it is the subject of mar-

riage ; if ever the Bible was needed as a

counselor, if ever divine guidance should

be sought in prayer, it is before taking a

step that binds persons together for life."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 175.

After Rebekah and Isaac had

waited for twenty years, how were

their hopes for a family realized? Gen.

25:20, 24.

NoTE.—Like Abraham and Sarah, they

were to understand that children of prom-

ise are not simply born in the natural

order, but are in a special sense the gift of

God.

How are the two sons described,

and what is said of the attitude of

their parents? Gen. 25:27, 28.

NoTE.—The unwise favoritism displayed

in this once happy home was most un-

fortunate. It brought division and enmity

between the brothers; and for many cen-

turies there was bitter hostility between

the Israelites and the posterity of Esau,

known as the Edomites.

10.

What acts on the part of Esau

brought grief and sadness to his par-

ents? Gen. 26:34, 35; 27:46.

NoTE.—"Those who would find true hap-

piness must have the blessing of Heaven

upon all that they possess and all that

they do. It is disobedience to God that

fills so many hearts and homes with misery.

My sister, unless you would have a home

where the shadows are never lifted, do not

unite yourself with one who is an enemy of

God."—The Adventist Home,

page 67.

Deception and Its Bitter

Consequences

11.

Prior to the birth of her two

sons, what had the Lord revealed to

Rebekah? Gen. 25:21-23.

12.

In spite of this divine forecast

concerning Jacob and Esau, what did

Isaac plan to do? Gen. 27:1-4.

NoTE.—"Years passed on, until Isaac, old

and blind, and expecting soon to die, de-

termined no longer to delay the bestowal

of the blessing upon his elder son. But

knowing the opposition of Rebekah and

Jacob, he decided to perform the solemn

ceremony in

secret."—Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,

page 179.

This blessing included the birthright

privileges as head of the family, priest of

the household, and inheritor of the fa-

ther's wealth.

13.

When Rebekah overheard

Isaac's secret conversation with Esau,

what did she instruct Jacob to do?

Gen. 27:6-10.

NOTE.—"Rebekah divined his purpose.

She was confident that it was contrary to

what God had revealed as His will. Isaac

was in danger of incurring the divine dis-

pleasure and of debarring his younger son

from the position to which God had called

him. She had in vain tried the effect of

reasoning with Isaac, and she determined

to resort to stratagem."—Patriarchs

and

Prophets,

page 180.

14.

Because of the deception prac-

ticed upon the aged Isaac, how was

the family chastened? Gen. 27:41-45.

NoTE.—"Rebekah bitterly repented the

wrong counsel she had given her son; it

was the means of separating him from her,

and she never saw his face again. From the

hour when he received the birthright, Jacob

was weighed down with self-condemna-

tion. He had sinned against his father, his

brother, his own soul, and against God. In

one short hour he had made work for a

lifelong repentance."—Patriarchs

and

Prophets,

page 180.

Isaac and Esau were also thwarted in

their plans and bitterly grieved. See Gen.

27:33-35.

[

127

Thoughts for Meditation

May Christians rightly assume that "the

end justifies the means," or that they may

do evil that good may come?

If Christian husbands or wives act in-

dependently, not sharing their secrets or

desires with each other, what grave perils

are in store?

"There is a sacred circle around every

family which should be preserved. No

other one has any right in that sacred cir-

cle. The husband and wife should be all

to each other. The wife should have no

secrets to keep from her husband and let

others know, and the husband should have

no secrets to keep from his wife to relate

to others."-The

Adventist Home,

page 177.

Would the courtesy and kindness of my

public conduct distinguish me in a group

of strangers, as did Rebekah's at the well

when unknowingly observed by Eliezer?

(Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 172.)

Lesson 4, for July 28, 1962

Rachel and Leah

MEMORY VERSE:

"And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed

unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her." Gen. 29:20.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 188-190, 206; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check

Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

Monday: Questions 5-9.

Tuesday: Questions 10-12.

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 13, 14; be-

gin reading Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Jacob and Rachel Meet

At the well near Haran. Gen.

29:1-6.

The cousins meet. Gen. 29:9-12.

Laban's cordial greeting. Gen. 29:

13-15.

An agreement reached. Gen. 29:

16-19.

II. The Years in Padan-aram

Seven years of happy toil. Gen.

29:20.

A cruel deception. Gen. 29:21-23.

A compromise reached. Gen. 29:

25-28.

8. Discord in the home life. Gen. 30:1.

9. Human mistakes overruled. Gen.

30:20, 21.

III. The Flight to Canaan

10. The sudden departure. Gen.

31:1-

7, 17-20.

11. Search for the stolen gods.

Gen. 31:26-35.

12. The household cleansed from idols.

Gen. 35:2-4.

IV. Death Claims Loved Ones

13. Deborah and Rachel die. Gen. 35:

8, 16-20.

14. In fond memory. Gen. 48:7; 49:31;

Jer. 31:15, 16; Matt. 2:17, 18.

1131

THE LESSON

Introduction

Acting on Rebekah's proposal, Jacob con-

spired to impersonate Esau before his aged

father Isaac, and obtained the paternal bless-

ing and birthright. Threatened with death

by his infuriated brother, Jacob followed

the counsel of his parents, and as an exile

from home, made the long, 450-mile journey

northward to his mother's ancestral home

at Haran, near Padan-aram. About ninety-

seven years had elapsed since Eliezer made

the same trip to secure Rebekah as a wife

for Isaac.

Jacob and Rachel Meet

As Jacob neared his destination,

whom did he see and what conversa-

tion ensued? Gen. 29:1-6.

Describe the meeting of Jacob

and Rachel. Gen. 29:9-12.

NOTE.—Then, as now, the well in Mid-

dle Eastern countries was frequently a

meeting place for shepherds and travelers.

Also, a young woman, even among rich and

prosperous families, often serves as shep-

herdess of her father's flock. At this well

near Haran the cousins met for the first

time in their lives, and it appeared to be

love at first sight.

After his cordial greeting, what

proposal did Laban make

Jacob?

Gen. 29:13-15.

What was Jacob's reply, and

what agreement was reached? Gen.

29:16-19.

The Years in Padan-aram

What brief statement depicts the

seven-year period of service? Gen.

29:20.

NOTE.—"Jacob gave evidence of his de-

voted affection for Rachel, not alone by his

willingness to serve seven years for her, but

even more by the spirit in which he worked

for his avaricious uncle. Many as were the

days that must pass before Rachel should

become his bride, they were rendered happy

by his love for her. The words used by

Moses to express the depth of Jacob's love

breathe pure affection and tender devo-

tion.—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Gen.

29:20.

At the close of this term of serv-

ice what cruel deception was prac-

ticed upon Jacob? Gen. 29:21-23.

How did Jacob react to this

grevious imposition, and how was

the difficulty adjusted? Gen. 29: 25-28.

NoTE.—Jacob was now reaping what he

had sown. The supplanter and deceiver is

himself the victim of faithless intrigue.

However, Laban's covetous scheme par-

tially appeased Jacob, and at the close of

the seven-day wedding feast, Rachel became

his wife.

"Polygamy had become so widespread

that it had ceased to be regarded as a sin,

but it was no less a violation of the law of

God, and was fatal to the sacredness and

peace of the family

relation."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 145.

As a result of this dual marriage,

what difficulties arose in the home

life? Gen. 30:1.

NOTE.—Leah considered that she was

hated. See Gen. 29:31, 33. "The fact that

Leah herself was a party to the cheat,

caused Jacob to feel that he could not love

her. His indignant rebuke to Laban was

met with the offer of Rachel for another

seven years' service. But the father in-

sisted that Leah should not be discarded,

since this would bring disgrace upon the

family. Jacob was thus placed in a most

[ 14 ]

painful and trying position; he finally de-

cided to retain Leah and marry Rachel.

Rachel was ever the one best loved; but

his preference for her excited envy and

jealousy, and his life was embittered by

the rivalry between the sister-wives."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 189, 190.

How many children were born

to Leah? Gen. 30:20, 21.

NOTE.—The psalmist declares: "The

wrath of man shall praise Thee: the re-

mainder of wrath shalt Thou restrain."

Ps. 76:10. The divine purpose cannot be

thwarted, and in His providence God over-

rules the mistakes of men to His glory.

Leah appears to have been a worshiper of

the true God and a good mother. One of

her sons, Judah, became the leader among

the twelve brothers; and on the occasion

of Jacob's dying benediction to his sons,

the crowning blessing of the birthright was

bestowed upon Judah. Along the kingly

line of his posterity were David, Solomon,

and the "Lion of the tribe of Judah"—Jesus

Christ.

The Flight to Canaan

10.

After twenty years of service to

Laban, what did Jacob and his family

proceed to do? Gen. 31:1-7, 17-20.

11.

When Laban pursued and

overtook the wayfarers, what incident

occurred? Gen. 31:26-35.

NoTE.—These gods, or teraphim, were

small images, or household gods, and

whether regarded as mere relics or real ob-

jects of worship, they are denounced in

Scripture as "an abomination." In con-

cealing her theft by subtlety, Rachel simu-

lated the crafty ways of both father and

husband.

12.

Following an eventful journey

to Canaan, what instruction did Jacob

give to his household, and with what

result? Gen. 35:2-4.

NoTE.—"He [Jacob] determined that be-

fore going to this sacred spot his household

should be freed from the defilement of

idolatry. . .

"As he reviewed the wonderful dealings

of God with him, his own heart was sof-

tened, his children also were touched by a

subduing power; he had taken the most

effectual way to prepare them to join in

the worship of God when they should ar-

rive at

Bethel."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 205.

Undoubtedly these strange gods included

the teraphim that Rachel had taken from

her father. The co-operation of the house-

hold in this reform is commendable. Even

the jewelry was discarded.

Death Claims Loved Ones

13.

Soon after entering Canaan,

what two funerals occurred? Gen.

35:8, 16-20.

NoTE.—Deborah, who had been a be-

loved nurse in the family of Rebekah and

her children for over 125 years, passed

away, and was buried with expressions of

extreme sorrow. Rachel also, while giving

birth to Benjamin, died along the journey

between Bethel and Bethlehem. This

brought crushing sorrow to Jacob. For

her he had toiled fourteen years. His love

for her was deep and abiding, and to per-

petuate her memory Jacob erected over

her grave a stone pillar that remained as a

famous landmark for several centuries. See

1 Sam. 10:2.

14.

What further references to

Rachel and Leah are found in Scrip-

ture? Gen. 48:7; 49:31; Jer. 31:15,

16; Matt. 2:17, 18.

NoTE.—Near the close of his life, as

Jacob was bestowing farewell blessings

upon his sons, he tenderly mentioned Rachel

and Leah. A thousand years later it ap-

pears that the town of Ramah, near the

tomb of Rachel, was the site of a prison

[15]

camp for Jewish exiles on their way to

Babylonian captivity. Here many were

killed and others brutally treated; hence

"Rachel is represented as witnessing the

distress experienced by her descendants and

as weeping bitterly for her children. Mat-

thew, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit,

applied this passage to Herod's massacre of

the children of Bethlehem."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on Jer. 31:15.

The beautiful promise to Rachel in Jer.

31:16 has also afforded blessed comfort and

assurance to unnumbered mothers in Israel

whose children have been ruthlessly

snatched from their breasts. "They shall

come again from the land of the enemy."

Thoughts for Meditation

Am I contributing my full share to a

happy Christian home? Here is the divine

prescription: Eph. 5:2, 21.

Before Rachel and the family went to

Bethel, they put away their idols and

Jacob buried them. How may I know that

I have surrendered every idol?

Lesson 5, for August 4, 1962

Miriam the Prophetess

MEMORY VERSE: "0

give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy en-

dureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He hath redeemed

from the hand of the enemy." Ps. 107:1,

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 243, 288, 382-385; "S.D.A. Bible

Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1, 2.



❑

Monday: Questions 3, 4; begin read-

ing from Study Helps.



❑

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions 5-10.



❑

Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; read

further from Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.



Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Watcher on the Riverbank

Alert and on guard. Ex. 2:1-4.

Conversation with Pharaoh's

daughter. Ex. 2:5-9.

II. Poet, Musician, Prophetess

Associated with Moses and Aaron.

Micah 6:4.

A musician and singer. Ex. 15:20,

21.

III. Her Criticism and Its Penalty

Finding fault with Moses. Num.

12:1.

A further complaint. Num. 12:2.

The divine rebuke. Num. 12:4-9.

Smitten with leprosy. Num.

12:10-12.

The virus of envy. Prov. 14:30;

27:4.

10.

Reaping the harvest. Rom. 1:29-

32;

Gal. 5:19-21.

IV. Her Restoration

11.

Prayer and healing. Num. 12:13-15.

12.

The death of Miriam. Num. 20:1.

[ 16

THE LESSON

Introduction



Poet, Musician, Prophetess

The circumstances of Israel's sojourn in

Egypt are well known. Located in the

fertile section of Goshen, Jacob's descend-

ants prospered and multiplied while the

Egyptians became jealous and apprehensive.

The friendly Hyksos had been driven out,

and the new dynasty, kings who "knew

not Joseph," subjected the Israelites to ab-

ject slavery, treating them with extreme

cruelty. Under these circumstances Amram

and Jochebed of the tribe of Levi were

blessed with the gift of three children—

Miriam, Aaron, and Moses.

The Watcher on the Riverbank

In connection with what inci-

dent is Miriam first mentioned in

Scripture? Ex. 2:1-4.

Non.—Aaron was three years old when

Moses was born, and Miriam must have

been several years older.

Moses' mother did not dare to remain

near the ark to guard it, "lest the child's

life and her own should be forfeited; but

his sister, Miriam, lingered near, apparently

indifferent, but anxiously watching to see

what would become of her little brother."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 243.

When Pharaoh's daughter found

little Moses in the ark, what tactful

inquiry did Miriam make, and with

what result? Ex. 2:5-9.

NoTE.—"The faith and resourcefulness of

a loving mother and the tact and skill of

a prudent sister were crowned with suc-

cess. Not only was Moses' life saved but he

was, as well, returned to his own cradle and

to the bosom of his own mother."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Ex. 2:8.

Reliable evidence points to the belief by

archaeologists that the "Pharaoh's daugh-

ter" here mentioned later became Queen

Hatshepsut, the most remarkable woman

sovereign of ancient Egypt, also the patron

and protector of the youthful Moses.

Its the emancipation of Israel

from Egypt, what three individuals

had a prominent part? Micah 6:4.

NorE.—For approximately eighty years

nothing is known concerning the activities

of Miriam; but when the hour arrived for

God to liberate His people from bondage,

she and her brother Aaron were given

positions of "high honor and leadership

in Israel. Both were endowed with the

prophetic gift," and both were "divinely

associated with Moses in the deliverance of

the

Hebrews."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 382.

When the Israelites were safe

from Pharaoh's army on the victory

shore of the Red Sea, in what ex-

pressions of joy did Miriam lead all

the women? Ex. 15:20, 21.

NoTE.—In this moment of triumph Mir-

iam appears as an inspired and talented

director of music. "Miriam, with her chorus

of women, sang in response to the male

chorus, probably at the termination of each

stanza of the song (after vs. 5, 10, 18).

The words of Miriam's refrain, 'Sing ye to

the lord,' etc., were also the opening words

of "Moses' song of victory (v. 1)."--S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Ex. 15:21.

Her Criticism and Its Penalty

Not long after leaving Mount

Sinai, what criticism did Miriam and

Aaron voice against Moses? Num.

12:1.

NOTE.—"Yielding to the spirit of dis-

satisfaction, Miriam found cause of com-

plaint in events that God had especially

overruled. The marriage of Moses had been

displeasing to her. That he should choose

a woman of another nation, instead of

[17]

taking a wife from among the Hebrews,

was an offense to her family and national

pride. Zipporah was treated with ill-dis-

guised contempt.

"Though called a Tushite woman' (Num-

bers 12:1, R.V.), the wife of Moses was

a Midianite, and thus a descendant of

Abraham. In personal appearance she dif-

fered from the Hebrews in being of a

somewhat darker complexion. Though not

an Israelite, Zipporah was a worshiper of

the true

God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 383.

What other complaint did they

make against their brother? Num.

12:2.

NOTE.—"In the appointment of the sev-

enty elders Miriam and Aaron had not been

consulted, and their jealousy was excited

against Moses. At the time of Jethro's

visit, while the Israelites were on the way

to- Sinai; the ready acceptance by Moses

of the counsel of his father-in-law had

aroused in Aaron and Miriam a fear that

his influence with the great leader exceeded

theirs. In the organization of the council

of elders they felt that their position and

authority had been ignored. . . .

"Smarting under the supposed neglect

shown to herself and Aaron, she regarded

the wife of Moses as the,

cause, concluding

that her influence had prevented him from

taking them into his counsels as formerly."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 382-384.

How did the Lord regard this

spirit of criticism? Num. 12:4-9.

NorE.—"God had chosen Moses, and had

put His Spirit upon him; and Miriam and

Aaron, by their murmurings, were guilty of

disloyalty, not only to their appointed

leader, but to God Himself. The seditious

whisperers were summoned to the taber-

nacle, and brought face to face with

Moses."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages

384, 385.

What fateful occuriinces

indi-

cated the divine disfavOr? Num. 12:

10-12.

NoTE.—"The cloud disappeared from the

tabernacle in token of God's displeasure,

and Miriam was smitten. She 'became

leprous, white as snow.' Aaron was spared,

but be was severely rebuked in Miriam's

punishment. Now, their, pride humbled in

the dust, Aaron confessed their sin, and

entreated that his sister might not e left

to perish by that loathsome and deadly

scourge."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

385.

What does Solomon say con-

cerning the grave sin of envy (or

jealousy)? Prov. 14:30; 27:4.

10.

In what category of gross sins

does envy occur, and what retribution

is in store for those who cherish this

evil? Rom. 1:29-32; Gal. 5:19-21.

Her Restoration

11.

What prayer for healing did

Moses offer? What salutary punish-

ment was required? Num. 12:13-15.

NorE.—In the outcry against Moses, it is

evident that Miriam had been the princi-

pal offender. According to the Mosaic code,

a person suffering from leprosy, or recover-

ing from that malady, must go into isola-

tion. In compliance with this, Miriam, a

victim not only of physical leprosy but als

of the leprosy of sin (envy), must be

placed in quarantine. "Not until she was

banished from the encampment did the

symbol of God's favor again rest upon the

tabernacle."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

385.

12.

What brief record of Miriam's

death is given in Scripture? Num.

20:1.

Norc.—Following Miriam's grievous sin

she lived thirty-eight years, and died at an

age of some 132 years. This occurred about

four months before Aaron's death and

eleven months before Moses died. Follow-

[ 18 ]

ing the death of the two brothers there

were official periods of mourning, but none

is recorded for Miriam. Could it be that

this was omitted because the sin of envy

had marred this otherwise beautiful and

dedicated life?

Thoughts for Meditation

When tempted to criticize another, what

should I remember? There is a Scriptural

plan for dealing with wrongs among the

membership of the church. See Matt. 18:

15-17. Again, Satan is denounced as the

accuser of the brethren, and those who con-

tinue to follow his sinister example are

often led down the perilous trail to apos-

tasy.

How may I overcome every temptation

to envy, jealousy, and unkind criticism?

Yield to Him who has promised to bring

"into captivity every thought to the obe-

dience of Christ." Let this mind be in you,

and think on the pure, the true, and the

beautiful. 2 Cor. 10:5; Phil. 2:5; 4:8.

Lesson 6, for August 11, 1962

Rahab; Deborah

MEMORY VERSE:

"Praise ye the Lord for the avenging of Israel, when the people

willingly offered themselves. Hear, 0 ye kings; give ear,

ye princes; I, even

I, will sing unto the Lord; I will sing praise to the Lord God of Israel." Judges

5:2, 3.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 483, 491-493, 545; "Prophets and

Kings," page 369; "Christ's Object Lessons," page 301; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-



Tuesday: Questions 9-11.

duction and survey of the



Wednesday: Questions 12-14.



❑

lesson.



Thursday: Read Study Helps.



Sunday: Questions 1-5.



Friday: Review entire lesson.



Monday: Questions 6-8.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

Rahab Protects the Spies

the home on the wall. Joshua

2:1.

The king's attempt to take the

spies. Joshua 2:2, 3.

Rahab 's strategy. Joshua 2:4-6.

Her remarkable confession of faith.

Joshua 2:8-11.

The mutual pledge. Joshua 2:12-18.

II. Rahab Honored and Rewarded

6. Rescued from the doomed city.

Joshua 6:22, 23.

7. Welcomed and esteemed. Joshua

6:25; Ruth 4:21, 22; Matt. 1:5.

8. Her faith commended. Heb. 11:31;

James 2:25.

III. Deborah, Prophetess and Judge

9. The call for liberation. Judges

4:4-7.

10. Onward to the battlefield. Judges

4:8-10.

11. The victory. Judges 4:14-16, 23.

IV. The Song of Victory

12. Praise to the Lord. Judges 5:1-3.

13. The failure of Meroz. Judges 5:23.

14. The reward of loyalty. Judges 5:31.

f 19 3

THE LESSON

comes but gradually."—S.D.A.

Bible Com-

mentary,

on Joshua 2:4.

4. What confession of faith did Ra-

hab express? Joshua 2:8-11.

Introduction

For forty long years the Israelites wan-

dered about in "that great and terrible

wilderness" of the Sinai Peninsula. A new

generation with new leaders were about to

cross over Jordan into the Promised Land;

and the two spies sent by Joshua to in-

vestigate the fortifications of Jericho, won

Rahab and her family from paganism to

the worship of the living God.

A century and a half after Israel's settle-

ment in Canaan and following periods of

apostasy in Israel and oppression by neigh-

boring kingdoms, Deborah the prophetess

became judge over the chosen people. Dur-

ing the years in which the judges ruled in

Israel she appears to have been the only

woman who was elevated to that office.

Rahab Protects the Spies

As Joshua was about to lead Is-

rael to the conquest of Canaan, to

what city did he send spies, and where

did they lodge? Joshua 2:1.

When the king of Jericho heard

that spies had entered his city, what

did he seek to do? Joshua 2:2, 3.

How did Rahab protect the

spies? Joshua 2:4-6.

NOTE.—It must be remembered that

Rahab lived in a corrupt pagan society,

and that among the "abominations of the

heathen," such things as lying and im-

morality were not regarded as great sins.

To save the lives of her guests she told a

series of falsehoods.

"Rahab was faced with what seemed to

her a choice between a greater and a lesser

evil: to share in the responsibility of the

death of two men whom she believed to be

messengers of God, or to tell a lie and save

them. To a Christian a lie can never be

justified, but to a person like Rahab light

NOTE.—"In wicked Jericho the testimony

of a heathen woman was, 'The Lord your

God, He is God in heaven above, and in

earth beneath.' . . . The knowledge of Je-

hovah that had thus come to her, proved

her salvation. By faith `Rahab perished

not with them that believed not.' . . .

And her conversion was not an isolated case

of God's mercy toward idolaters who ac-

knowledged His divine authority."—Proph-

ets

and Kings,

page 369. Observe these ex-

pressions, "Our hearts did melt," and "I

know." While the inhabitants of Jericho

were trembling in terror, Rahab believed,

and passed from fear to faith.

What request did Rahab make,

and what mutual pledge was given?

Joshua 2:12-18.

Rahab Honored and Rewarded

When Jericho was overthrown,

what became of Rahab and her house-

hold? Joshua 6:22, 23.

NOTE.—Rahab had saved the lives of the

spies; now they approach the house on

the wall with a "scarlet threat in the win-

dow," and the occupants are saved. Be-

fore the fated city is destroyed this brave

woman and her family are conducted to a

place of safety "without the camp of Is-

rael." There they would be purified and

purged from their pagan customs and be-

liefs, and instructed in the worship and

service of the true God.

After being welcomed into the

house of Israel, how was Rahab hon-

ored? Joshua 6:25; Ruth 4:21, 22;

Matt. 1:5.

[20]

NoTE.—Since the Scriptures make no

mention of a husband, it is inferred that at

the time of Jericho's capture Rahab had

none. From the above texts it is evident

that after her adoption by the chosen peo-

ple she married Salmon, a prince of Judah,

and thus became the mother of Boaz and

a favored ancestor of David, Solomon, and

Jesus Christ. Truly, God "raises up the poor

from the dust; He lifts the needy from the

ash heap, to make them sit with princes

and inherit a seat of honor." 1 Sam. 2:8,

R.S.V. Even so Rahab is taken from the

mire of an idolatrous society, transplanted

into the family of God, and made the

mother of a blessed and royal posterity.

Nor was He who stooped to take man's

fallen nature ashamed of His ancestry.

In what language do New Testa-

ment writers commend the faith and

courage of Rahab? Heb. 11:31; James

2:25.

Deborah, Prophetess and Judge

After a period of apostasy in

Israel and oppression by a Canaanite

king, what steps did the prophetess

Deborah take to liberate her people?

Judges 4:4-7.

10.

How did Barak respond to the

call, and what did Deborah do to sup-

port the campaign? Judges 4:8-10.

NOTE.

—

"Deborah's

presence would serve

to make clear that the undertaking was of

God.... It is to the credit of Barak that he

followed prophetic guidance in the danger-

ous undertaking. It is also worthy of note

that Deborah did not draw back from the

course she had prescribed for others. As

for Barak, he preferred the humbler role of

one who was executing the command that

had come from the Lord. He voluntarily

retired behind the authority of a woman

whom God had animated and inspired."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Judges 4:8.

11.

When the opportune moment

arrived, what command did Deborah

give

to the captain of Israel's army,

and with what result? Judges 4:14-

16, 23.

NorE.—On the slope of Mount Tabor,

Barak's little army awaited the advance of

Sisera and his host. "Deborah, with the

enthusiasm of a patriot and the inspiration

of a prophetess, looked and prayed to

heaven for the signal to attack. At length

her eye saw it, and she cried: 'Up, for this

is the day in which the Lord hath delivered

Sisera into thine hand!' "—Butler,

The Bi-

ble Work, vol. 3,

p. 186.

The Song of Victory

12.

When the battle was won, how

did Deborah and Barak commemorate

Israel's victory? Judges 5:1-3.

NOTE.—This song, including the entire

chapter of thirty-one verses, is considered

"one of the greatest martial poems ever

written." While God is given full praise for

the glorious triumph, His heroes in the con-

flict are also eulogized. The poem especially

commends the valiant soldiers of Zebulun

and Naphtali as "a people that jeoparded

their lives unto the death." It gives eloquent

praise to Jael, the wife of Heber, for her

fearless deed in executing the captain of

the Canaanite army and thus fulfilling the

divine promise, "I will deliver him into

thine hand." Judges 5:18; 4:7, 9.

13.

In contrast to the grave and

patriotic spirit of others, what did

the people of Meroz fail to do, and

what curse was pronounced upon

them? Judges 5:23.

NoTE.—To be neutral in a time of crisis

is treason. "Many of our people are luke-

warm. They occupy the position of Meroz,

neither for nor against, neither cold nor

hot. They hear the words of Christ, but

do them not. If they remain in this state,

[ 21 ]

He will reject them with abhorrence. Many

of those who have had great light, great

opportunities, and every spiritual advantage

praise Christ and the world with the same

breath. They bow themselves before God

and mammon. They make merry with the

children of the world, and yet claim to be

blessed with the children of God. They

wish to have Christ as their Saviour, but

will not bear the cross and wear His yoke."

—Testimonies, vol.

5, pp. 76, 77.

14. With what words does Deb-

orah's song of triumph close? Judges

5: 3 1.

NOTE.—This radiant picture of those who

love and serve God is further enhanced by

the prophet Daniel as he declared that the

wise would "shine as the brightness of the

firmament," and "as the stars forever and

ever." Likewise the Master Himself em-

ployed the same figure, saying: "Then

shall the righteous shine forth as the sun

in the kingdom of their Father." Dan. 12:3;

Matt. 13:43.

Thoughts for Meditation

The experience of Rahab "teaches three

great lessons: (1) Great sin is no bar to

repentance. (2) Many who before their

conversion led wicked lives may thereafter

distinguish themselves as heroes of faith.

(3) A reputation once established may

cling to a person long after repentance has

erased sin from his life."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on Joshua 2:1.

From the story of Deborah we learn the

vital truth that

human weakness may be

replaced by divine strength.

The promise is

sure: "Fear t-iou not; for I am with thee."

Isa. 41:10.

Lesson 7, for August 18, 1962

Ruth the Moabitess

MEMORY VERSE: "And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from

following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest,

I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God." Ruth 1:16,

STUDY HELP: "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon:



General Intro-

Tuesday:



Questions 9-11.

❑

duction and survey of the

Wednesday:



Questions 12-14.

❑

lesson.

❑

Thursday: Read Study Help.

❑

Sunday:



Questions 1-4.

❑

Friday:



Review entire lesson.

❑

Monday: Questions 5-8.

❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction



II.

I. On the Way to Bethlehem

Departure from Moab. Ruth 1:6,

"For your sakes." Ruth 1:8-13.

Orpah returns to Moab. Ruth 1:14.

Ruth's memorable decision. Ruth

1:15-17.

I 22 ]

The Gleaner

The welcome at Bethlehem. Ruth

1:19-22.

In the harvest field. Ruth 2:2, 3.

Spiritually minded Boaz. Ruth

2:1, 4.

Ruth receives special favors. Ruth

2:5-16.

III. The Friendly Kinsman

A fruitful day of toil. Ruth

2:17-23.

10.

Naomi's suggestion. Ruth 3:1-4.

11.

The assuring reply. Ruth 3:10-13.

IV. The Happy Marriage

12.

Boaz becomes the "redeemer."

Ruth 4:1-9.

13.

Congratulations of the townspeople.

Ruth 4:10-12.

14.

Faith rewarded. Ruth 4:13-17, 21,

22.

THE LESSON

daughters-in-law that prompted Naomi to

urge each of them to return to her parents'

home. Oriental custom bound them to her,

but she refused to press her claim to their

service. She would not compel them to

begin life anew in a strange land, but left

them free to marry again and to set up their

own homes."—S.DA.

Bible Commentary,

on Ruth 1:8.

Introduction

In the days of the judges and during a

time of severe famine, Elimelech and his

wife Naomi, of the tribe of Judah, forsook

their home country, departed from Bethle-

hem, and sought refuge in the land of

Moab, located east of the Dead Sea. Their

two sons accompanied them and married

two young women of that country, Orpah

and Ruth. Tragedy struck the family, how-

ever, and within ten years Elimelech and

the two young men died, leaving the three

widows. The story of Naomi's return to

Bethlehem accompanied by her daughter-

in-law, Ruth, is one of the most heart-

warming in the Bible.

In this unique story we have an intimate

glimpse into the family life of Israel with

its adversities and sorrows, its charms and

delights, and its portrayal of true affection

at its best. "Human kindness, filial piety,

affectionate constancy, uncomplaining toil,

true chastity, sweet patience, strong faith,

noble generosity, simple piety—are all here,

and they are all observed by God, and are

shown to be pleasing to Him, who rewards

them in due time."—Butler,

The Bible

Work,

vol. 3, p. 195.

On the Way to Bethlehem

When Naomi heard that Judah

was again prosperous, what did she

and her daughters-in-law do? Ruth

1:6, 7.

Along the journey, what con-

versation took place among the three

women? Ruth 1:8-13.

Nora.—Observe the phrase, "for your

sakes." Naomi appears as an ideal mother-

in-law. "It was unselfish love for her

How did the young widows re-

act to Naomi's persuasion? Ruth 1:14.

As Naomi continued her unself-

ish plea, what was Ruth's memorable

reply? Ruth 1:15-17.

NOTE.—"Ruth's answer is the keynote of

the whole book. It is not merely that

Ruth's love for her mother-in-law leads

her to cleave to Naomi. Ruth has discov-

ered that it is Naomi's faith that makes her

a wonderful woman."—S.D.A.

Bible Com-

mentary,

on Ruth 1:16. In the words of

another, "The cord that drew her (Ruth)

was twisted of two strands, her love to

Naomi and her love of Naomi's God."

Ruth the Gleaner

On the arrival of Naomi and

Ruth at Bethlehem, how were they

received by the townspeople? Ruth

1:19-22.

Soon after reaching Bethlehem,

what did Ruth propose to do? Where

did she go? Ruth 2:2, 3.

[28

]

NoTE.—It was springtime in Judea, for

barley harvest occurred during the months

of March and April. At such times farmers

were bidden to leave the gleanings "for the

stranger, for the fatherless, and for the

widow." Deut. 24:19. Knowing of this

privilege accorded to the needy, Ruth vol-

unteers to act her part as a faithful, frugal

daughter. As a stranger, she knows not

where to go, but is guided by a divine hand

to the field belonging to Boaz.

Many years later, in this same field, or

nearby, Ruth's great-grandson, David the

shepherd boy and harpist, guarded his fa-

ther's flocks; while more than a thousand

years later, other shepherds "keeping

watch over their flocks by night" heard the

angel announcement: "Unto you is born

this day in the City of David a Saviour,

which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11.

Who was Boaz, and how did he

treat his workmen? Ruth 2:1, 4.

NoTE.—According to the record it ap-

pears that Boaz was the son of Salmon and

Rahab. If this is the correct understanding,

Ruth became Rahab's daughter-in-law. See

Ruth 4:21.

When Boaz learned the identity

of Ruth, what special favors did he ex-

tend to her? Ruth 2:5-16.

NoTE.—The words of Boaz to Ruth, "the

Lord God of Israel, under whose wings

thou art come to trust" (verse 12), carry

with them rare significance. Ruth had but

recently embraced the religion of Jehovah,

and this statement was intended to

strengthen her new-found faith. A like

figure of speech, "under His wings," was

a favorite with Ruth's descendant, David

(Ps. 17:8; 36:7; 91:4), and was also em-

ployed by Christ (Matt. 23:37).

The Friendly Kinsman

At the close of the first day of

gleaning, what conversation took

place between Ruth and Naomi? Ruth

2:17-23.

NOTE.—As a result of her toil Ruth was

able to carry home "about an ephah of

barley," or about thirty pounds. See

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Ruth 2:17.

10.

Since Boaz had shown such a

friendly interest in Ruth, what sug-

gestion did Naomi make? Ruth 3:1-4.

NOTE.—In the Revised Standard Version,

verse 1 is translated: "My daughter, should

I not seek a home for you?" "Naomi felt

it her duty to do what she could to provide

a home for the daughter-in-law who had

so loyally followed her, and accordingly

explained to Ruth her right, according to

Jewish custom, to call upon Boaz to per-

form the duties of a near kinsman. If Boaz

agrees to marry her, Ruth will not only

have a home of her own but will also be

able to perpetuate the name and preserve

the heritage of her deceased husband."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Ruth 3:1.

11.

When Ruth presented this pro-

posal to Boaz, what was his reply?

Ruth 3:10-13.

NOTE.-"A

kinsman nearer than I." Prop-

erty was naturally bequeathed from father

to son, but in case of death or adversity

the estate might be lost to the family. In

such circumstance the nearest of kin had

the legal right to redeem it and seek to pre-

serve the family title of inheritance.

The Happy Marriage

12.

On the next morning when the

two kinsmen met, how was the prob-

lem settled? Ruth 4:1-9.

NOTE.—Boaz desired that the transaction

should be entirely legal, so the elders or

city councilors were called to witness and

confirm the procedure. In this case Naomi

had specified that the purchaser of the

property should also become the husband

of Ruth, thus hoping for a grandson who

would be the heir to the family estate.

[ 24

13.

How did the townspeople re-

gard this marriage, and when a son

was born what words of congratula-

tion were expressed? Ruth 4:10-12.

14.

In what wonderful way was

the blessing of the people upon Ruth

fulfilled? Ruth 4:13-17, 21, 22.

NoTE.—The grand climax of the story is

reached. Ruth the Moabitess marries a kins-

man, a progenitor of the illustrious family

line that gave to the world David, Solomon,

and the Lord Jesus Christ. The word

translated "kinsman" is from the same

Hebrew root as the word that is translated

in the Old Testament "redeemer." Accord-

ingly, various Bible writers employed the

figure of Christ as the "Near Kinsman" or

Redeemer who would deliver man from sin

and death. See Job 19:25; Ps. 19:14; Isa.

54:5. Truly our hearts rejoice in gratitude

to our "Elder Brother," our "Nearest Kins-

man," our Redeemer, who has ransomed us

from the power of Satan to become "heirs

of God, and joint heirs with Christ."

Thoughts for Meditation

Shall we not adorn the religion of Christ,

making it so lovely, so attractive, that even

the pagan heart will exclaim, "Thy peo-

ple shall be my people, and thy God my

God"?

If the Jews of Christ's day had learned

the lesson from the book of Ruth, would

they have been so rigidly exclusive? Do

I require a new appreciation of the worth

of every soul for whom Christ died? Am

I a respecter of persons?

Lesson 8, for August 25, 1962

Hannah; Rizpah

MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and

saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." Ps. 34:18.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 569-574; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-



Tuesday: Questions 7-11.

duction and survey of the



Wednesday: Questions 12-14.



lesson.



❑



Thursday: Finish reading Study

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

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Monday: Questions 5, 6; begin



Friday: Review entire lesson.

reading Study Helps.

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❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Hannah, a Woman of Piety

An unhappy home. 1 Sam.

1:1-6.

Hannah's grief. 1 Sam. 1:7-9.

A prayer and a vow. 1 Sam.

1:10, 11.

Conversation with Eli. 1 Sam.

1:12-18.

II. Answered Prayer

The reward of faith. 1 Sam.

1:19,

20.

The song of gratitude. 1 Sam.

2:1-10.

[26

III. Hannah and Samuel



11. The youthful priest. 1 Sam.

3:18-20.

Her sacred trust. 1 Sam. 1:21-23.

Dedicated to the Lord. 1 Sam.

1:24-28.

The high priest's benediction.

1 Sam. 2:20, 21.

10.

The annual visit and gift. 1 Sam.

2:18, 19.

IV. Rizpah's Undying Love

12.

A great sorrow. 2 Sam. 21:8, 9.

13.

The lonely vigil. 2 Sam. 21:10.

14.

An honored burial. 2 Sam.

21:11-14.

THE LESSON

2. When the family went to Shiloh

to attend the hallowed feasts, what

trouble developed? 1 Sam. 1:7-9.

Introduction

The events recorded in the first part of

this lesson occurred during the latter part

of Israel's rule by judges, believed to be

somewhat prior to 1100 B.C.

"Elkanah, a Levite of Mount Ephraim,

was a man of wealth and influence, and

one who loved and feared the Lord. His

wife, Hannah, was a woman of fervent

piety. Gentle and unassuming, her char-

acter was marked with deep earnestness

and a lofty faith.

"The blessing so earnestly sought by

every Hebrew was denied this godly pair;

their home was not gladdened by the voice

of childhood; and the desire to perpetuate

his name led the husband—as it had led

many others—to contract a second mar-

riage. But this step, prompted by a lack

of faith in God, did not bring happiness."

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 569.

Hannah, a Woman of Piety

1. What conditions prevailed in

Elkanah's home, and how did this af-

fect Hannah? 1 Sam. 1:1-6.

Nora.—"Sons and daughters were added

to the household; but the joy and beauty

of God's sacred institution had been marred

and the peace of the family was broken.

Peninnah, the new wife, was jealous and

narrow-minded, and she bore herself with

pride and insolence. To Hannah, hope

seemed crushed and life a weary burden;

yet she met the trial with uncomplaining

meekness."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page

569.

God has in store a blessing even for the

afflicted soul who earnestly seeks Him.

NorE.—The tabernacle at Shiloh was

only about twelve miles distant from Elka-

nah's home, and he appears to have been

a regular attendant at the annual gather-

ings. Yet even at these sacred services the

domestic troubles seem to have been ag-

gravated. As Elkanah appeared somewhat

partial to Hannah, "the second wife, fired

with jealousy, claimed the precedence as

one highly favored of God, and taunted

Hannah with her childless state as evidence

of the Lord's displeasure. This was repeated

from year to year, until Hannah could en-

dure it no longer. Unable to hide her grief,

she wept without restraint, and withdrew

from the

feast."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 569, 570.

As Hannah wept and prayed,

what vow did she make? 1 Sam. 1:

10, 11.

NorE.—In this solemn pledge, known as

the Nazarite vow, Hannah would dedicate

her child from birth to be wholly the

Lord's. As a token of this consecration, no

razor should "come upon his head."

While Hannah was praying in

the temple, who spoke to her, and

what conversation ensued? 1 Sam.

1:12-18.

Answered Prayer

How was Hannah's faith re-

warded? 1 Sam. 1:19, 20.

[ 26 ]

NoTE.—"Hannah's prayer was granted;

she received the gift for which she had so

earnestly entreated. As she looked upon

the child, she called him Samuel—`asked

of God.'

"—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

570.

In what song of praise did Han-

nah express her gratitude? 1 Sam.

2:1-10.

NOTE.—"The grief of earlier days is now

turned to exaltation in the Lord. The

prayer of yearning has given place to the

praise of divine strength. Her lips, once

closed in silent endurance, are now opened

to extol God's almighty power. . . . She

finds inspiration for song far beyond the

range of her own experience, and under the

guidance of the Holy Spirit looks forward

to the joy of the redeemed as they stand on

the sea of glass with a 'new song' on their

lips. . . .

"Victory takes the place of defeat, and

in the fullness of joy the soul is formed in

the image of Christ."—S.D.A.

Bible Com-

mentary,

on 1 Sam. 2:7, 8.

Hannah and Samuel

Following the birth of Samuel,

to what task did Hannah especially

devote her time and energies? 1 Sam.

1:21-23.

NorE.—Recognizing her little babe as a

heavenly gift, Hannah "sought to have him

trained for God from his earliest infancy.

She ministered to his physical needs with

much care and prayer, directing his thoughts

toward the Lord of hosts from the very

earliest age. That she might the more

perfectly fulfill her trust, she did not visit

Shiloh till after he was weaned. How far-

reaching is the influence of a mother in

Israel

!"—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

1 Sam. 1:22.

When the child was weaned, to

whom did Hannah present him? 1

Sam. 1:24-28.

NorE.—The time when Samuel was

weaned is not known. In accord with

Hebrew custom he may have been from

three to five years of age. During those

precious years what a priceless privilege

was accorded to Hannah!

"There are opportunities of inestimable

worth, interests infinitely precious, com-

mitted to every mother. The humble round

of duties which women have come to re-

gard as a wearisome task should be looked

upon as a grand and noble work. It is the

mother's privilege to bless the world by her

influence, and in doing this she will bring

joy to her own heart. She may make

straight paths for the feet of her children,

through sunshine and shadow, to the glori-

ous heights

above."—Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,

page 572.

What blessing did Eli, the high

priest, pronounce upon the happy

husband and wife? 1 Sam. 2:20, 21.

10.

Although separated from her

son during most of each year, how

did Hannah reveal her continued de-

votion and love? 1 Sam. 2:18, 19.

NoTE.—"When separated from her child,

the faithful mother's solicitude did not

cease. Every day he was the subject of

her prayers. Every year she made, with

her own hands, a robe of service for him;

and as she went up with her husband to

worship at Shiloh, she gave the child this

reminder of her love. Every fiber of the

little garment had been woven with a

prayer that he might be pure, noble, and

true."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 572.

11.

How was Hannah's conse-

crated life and teaching reflected in

the character of her son? 1 Sam. 3:

18-20.

NOTE.—"Young as he was when brought

to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had

even then duties to perform in the service

of God, according to his capacity. These

were at first very humble, and not always

pleasant; but they were performed to the

[ 27 2

best of his ability, and with a willing heart.

His religion was carried into every duty of

life. He regarded himself as God's servant,

and his work as God's work. His efforts

were accepted, because they were prompted

by love to God and a sincere desire to do

His will. It was thus that Samuel became

a co-worker with the Lord of heaven and

earth. And God fitted him to accomplish a

great work for

Israel."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

pages 573, 574.

Rizpah's Undying Love

12.

Who was Rizpah, and what

grievous sorrow did she experience?

2 Sam. 21:8, 9.

NOTE.—Rizpah, one of the "lowly folk of

the Great Book," had been a secondary wife

of King Saul. Tragedy after tragedy had

befallen her relatives and friends, and now

supposedly to atone for the heartless cruelty

of her deceased husband toward the Gib-

eonites, her two beloved sons, together with

five grandsons of Saul, were hanged in

Gibeah, not far from the former king's

royal palace.

13.

When this occurred, what did

Rizpah do? 2 Sam. 21:10.

NoTE.—To leave persons unburied indi-

cated that they were held in ignominy.

While others despised her sons as criminals,

Rizpah demonstrated her motherly love by

remaining at the place of execution until

they were honorably buried. She could not

do what she would like to do, so she did

what she could do by protecting their

bodies.

On the top of the rock, Rizpah spread

her mourning garment of sackcloth ; and

there for five months, from April to Octo-

ber, this devoted mother kept her lonely

vigil. With no tent for a shelter from the

scorching summer sun, or the chilling dews

of night, she guarded those lifeless bodies

from the vultures by day and the wild

beasts that prowled by night. Almost be-

yond the power of tongue to tell was the

tender, loving endurance of this mother in

Israel.

14.

When King David heard of this

rare example of mother love, what

did he do? 2 Sam. 21:11-14.

NoTE.—This was not a case of extreme

and unremitting sorrow, but rather intense

maternal love that led Rizpah to seek

the safety and honor of the dead.

As the heart of David was stirred to pity

and admiration, he ordered an honorable

burial. And God, looking down from above

to behold a mother's undying love and

sacrifice, caused this incident to be recorded

in His Book as a memorial to her.

Thoughts for Meditation

In this lesson two remarkable mothers

are presented—one for her faith, piety, and

influence upon her son Samuel; the other

for her heroism, constancy, and exhaustless

love for her ill-fated sons.

Beyond any human affection, we are re-

minded of another "love" that is without

parallel—of a love that "is infinite and a

tender pity surpassing a mother's yearning

sympathy for her wayward

child."—Steps

to Christ,

page 15.

Rizpah's mourning for her dead is not to

be taken as an example for the Christian

to follow in face of death. The apostle

Paul instructed the church at Thessalonica

concerning "them which are asleep," that

they "sorrow not, even as others which

have no hope." 1 Thess. 4:13. Ellen G.

White, commenting on this text, says:

"Now they rejoiced in the knowledge that

their believing friends would be raised from

the grave to live forever in the kingdom of

God. The darkness that had enshrouded

the resting place of the dead was dispelled.

A new splendor crowned the Christian faith,

and they saw a new glory in the life, death,

and resurrection of Christ.

" 'Even so them also which sleep in Jesus

will God bring with Him,' Paul wrote.

Many interpret this passage to mean that

the sleeping ones will be brought with

Christ from heaven; but Paul meant that

as Christ was raised from the dead, so God

will call the sleeping saints from their

graves and take them with Him to heaven.

Precious consolation! glorious hope! not

only to the church of Thessalonica, but to

all Christians wherever they may be."—

The Acts of the Apostles,

page 259.

[28]

Lesson 9, for September 1, 1962

"That Woman Jezebel"

MEMORY VERSE:

"And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt

ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, them

follow him. And the people answered him not a word." 1 Kings 18:21.

STUDY HELPS:

"Prophets and Kings," pages 114-116, 123-126, 159, 160, 204-207,

215, 216; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-



reading Study Helps.

duction and survey of the



Wednesday: Questions 11-13.



lesson.



Thursday: Finish reading Study

Sunday: Questions 1-3.



Helps.

Monday: Questions 4-7.



Friday: Review entire lesson.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Baal Worship Introduced

Ahab marries a pagan wife. 1 Kings

16:29-31.

Altars for Baal and Astarte.

1 Kings 16:32, 33.

Extreme religious bigotry. 1 Kings

21:25, 26; 18:4.

II. The Message of Elijah

Penalty for disobedience. 1 Kings

17:1.

Elijah's appeal. 1 Kings 18:21.

Fate of the false prophets. 1 Kings

18:39, 40.

7. Jezebel's fury. 1 Kings 19:2.

III. A Heartless Queen

8. Naboth's vineyard coveted. 1 Kings

21:5-7.

9. Vicious strategy. 1 Kings 21:8-14.

10. Elijah's alarming prophecy. 1 Kings

21:17-19, 23, 24.

IV. Jezebel's Death and Influence

11. Predictions appallingly fulfilled.

1 Kings 22:34, 37, 38; 2 Kings 9:30,

33-36.

12. The queen's posterity. 1 Kings

22:40; 2 Kings 1:2-4, 17; 8:16-18;

11:1.

13. Jezebel in prophecy. Rev. 2:18-20.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Following the illustrious reigns of David

and Solomon, ten tribes, located in the

north and east sections of Palestine, re-

volted and established a rival government

which was henceforth known as the king-

dom of Israel. The tribes of Judah and

Benjamin, with their capital at Jerusalem,

comprised the kingdom of Judah. In the

northern kingdom idolatry became preva-

lent, and after some fifty-seven hectic years

of strife and turmoil, Ahab, the seventh

king of that nation, came to the throne.

[ 29 ]

Baal Worship Introduced



The Message of Elijah

Among the first recorded acts of

Ahab's reign, what evil alliance was

formed? 1 Kings 16:29-31.

NOTE.—With the evident thought of

strengthening his position on the throne of

Israel, Ahab married Jezebel, daughter of

the priest-king of Sidon. This act was in

direct violation of the express instruction

of God. See Ex. 34:16.

Mention the further steps taken

in apostasy. 1 Kings 16:32, 33.

NoTE.—The chief national god of the

Canaanites was Baal, whose spirit was

variously supposed to animate holy trees,

springs, mountaintops, vegetation, the cat-

tle, the sun, etc.

This degrading worship sometimes in-

cluded the burning of children in fire, and

other heartless and abominable rites. Baal

was the male deity, while the "grove" rep-

resented the goddess Astarte, or Ashtoreth.

All such worship was in bold and open

transgression of the first and second com-

mandments.

In her fanatical zeal for pagan-

ism, what extreme measures did Jeze-

bel influence her husband to employ?

1 Kings 21:25, 26; 18:4.

NoTE.—Jezebel's boundless zeal for Baal

was worthy of a better cause. While she

put to death the prophets of God, she im-

ported and maintained 850 pagan mission-

aries to convert the people to idolatry. See

1 Kings 18:19.

"Not only did Ahab introduce Baal wor-

ship at the capital city, but under the lead-

ership of Jezebel he erected heathen altars

in many 'high places,' where in the shelter

of surrounding groves the priests and oth-

ers connected with this seductive form of

idolatry exerted their baleful influence, un-

til well-nigh all Israel were following after

Baal."—Prophets and Kings,

page 114.

Appearing abruptly before King

Ahab, what startling forecast did

Elijah make? 1 Kings 17:1.

After three years of famine,

when Elijah met the multitudes on

Mount Carmel, what challenging mes-

sage did he give? 1 Kings 18:21.

When the people witnessed the

signal display of divine power at

Elijah's altar, what did they declare?

and what fate overtook the prophets

of Baal? 1 Kings 18:39, 40.

When Jezebel learned that the

false teachers had been slain, what

message did she send to Elijah? 1

Kings 19:2.

NOTE.—"AS Ahab told the queen of the

slaying of the idolatrous prophets, Jezebel,

hardened and impenitent, became infuriated.

She refused to recognize in the events on

Carmel the overruling providence of God,

and, still defiant, she boldly declared that

Elijah should

die."—Prophets and Kings,

page 159.

However, the prophet Elijah escaped her

vengeance, and a few years later was trans-

lated without tasting death.

A Heartless Queen

When Naboth refused to sell his

vineyard to the king, what was Jeze-

bel's reaction? 1 Kings 21:5-7.

By what means did Jezebel ac-

complish her wicked purpose? 1

Kings 21:8-14.

[80]

NorE.—The ready compliance of the

city elders and nobles to execute this foul

plot indicates the low moral standard to

which rulers and people had fallen. Even

Naboth's sons were put to death with him,

so that there would be no living descend-

ant to claim the property. See 2 Kings

9:26. Such brutality is not only character-

istic of pagan despotism, but also of those

governments, ancient or modern, which

defy and repudiate God.

10.

As Ahab went to take posses-

sion of the vineyard, what dire proph-

ecy did Elijah convey to him? 1

Kings 21:17-19, 23, 24.

NOTE.—"Whatsoever a man soweth, that

shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7. "Jezebel

thought she had everything perfectly ar-

ranged, but she had not reckoned with

God. The Lord in heaven saw all that was

taking place. The terrible crime of Ahab

could not be allowed to go unrebuked."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on 1 Kings

21:17.

Jezebel's Death and Influence

11.

In what manner were these

predictions fulfilled? 1 Kings 22:34,

37, 38; 2 Kings 9:30, 33-36.

NOTE.—"Having had word of the death

of the two kings, her son and grandson,

she well knew that her turn was next. She

must prepare for her last moment on earth.

And what a preparation this evil woman

made! . . .

"She was defiant and unrepentant to the

last. She decked herself in all her ornaments

and put on her most stately attire. But

her outward adorning was to avail her

nothing, either before Jehu or before the

judgment bar of God."—S.D.A.

Bible Com-

mentary,

on 2 Kings 9:30.

12.

What is recorded concerning

Jezebel's son and daughter? 1 Kings

22:40; 2 Kings 1:2-4, 17; 8:16-18;

11:1.

NorE.—When Jezebel's son, Ahaziah, re-

ceived an injury, he called for help to the

god of Ekron, because of which sin he died

after a lingering illness. His son, the grand-

son of Jezebel, following a rather brief,

wicked reign was killed by Jehu, and his

body was thrown into the field of Naboth

to avenge fittingly the innocent blood shed

by his grandparents.

Jezebel's daughter, Athaliah, married Je-

horam, king of Judah, and introduced the

worship of Baal into that kingdom. The

king followed his wife into idolatry, and

after an inglorious reign died unmourned.

See 2 Chron. 21:18-20. The son of Jehoram

and Athaliah was killed after reigning but

one year. Then Athaliah, the fiendish

daughter of ruthless Jezebel, killed her

own grandsons and stepgrandsons in order

that she might rule as queen. Seven years

later her own subjects rose against her and

put an end to her vicious career. See 2

Kings 11:1, 16, 20. Thus ingloriously per-

ished the descendants of infamous Queen

Jezebel.

13.

In the prophecy of the seven

churches, what reference is made to

Jezebel? Rev 2:18-20.

NorE.—These words describe the church

of Christ during the long period of papal

triumph and persecution. The expression

"that woman Jezebel" is here used in a

figurative sense, as the church of the apos-

tasy that introduced error.

Thoughts for Meditation

This tragic narrative, although so pain-

ful to relate, was nevertheless recorded

aforetime for our admonition that it may

emphasize the fearful harvest of apostasy.

"Never should God's people venture upon

forbidden ground. Marriage between be-

lievers and unbelievers is forbidden by

God."—Messages to Young People,

page

436.

"Unless you would have a home where

the shadows are never lifted, do not unite

yourself with one who is an enemy of God."

Ibid.,

page 440.

Concerning those who venture on this

fateful experiment, these words are spoken:

"When it is too late, they find that they

have made a mistake, and have imperiled

their happiness in this life and the salva-

tion of their souls."—Ibid., page 459.

[ 31

Lesson 10, for September 8, 1962

Esther, the Persian Queen

MEMORY VERSE:

"For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall

there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but

thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether

thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14.

STUDY HELPS:

"Prophets and

Kings," pages 598-606; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

Monday: Questions 5-7.

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions

8-11.



❑

Wednesday: Questions

12-14.

Thursday: Read Study Helps.

Friday: Review entire

lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Esther Becomes Queen

The search for a new queen. Esther

2:1-4.

Esther enters the palace. Esther

2:5-7.

The coronation. Esther 2:16-18.

Esther's regard for Mordecai.

Esther 2:20.

II. Haman's Plot

Mordecai and Haman. Esther

3 : 1-4.

The plot and the king's reaction.

Esther 3:5-11.

7. Effect

upon the

Jews. Esther 4:1-3.

III. Facing the Crisis

8. Mordecai's message to Esther.

Esther 4:13, 14.

9. Esther accepts the challenge.

Esther 4:15-17.

10. The first banquet. Esther 5:1-8.

11. The sleepless night and events of

the

following day. Esther 6:1-14.

IV. The Miraculous Deliverance

12. The second banquet and Haman's

fall. Esther 7:1-10.

13. A superseding decree. Esther

8:1-14.

14. Deliverance and rejoicing. Esther

8:16, 17; 9:17, 26-28.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Because of national apostasy God used

Nebuchadnezzar to punish His rebellious

people. Jerusalem was captured, the mag-

nificent temple was destroyed, and multi-

tudes of the Jews were carried into Baby-

lonian captivity. With the overthrow of

Babylon by the Medo-Persians, kings Cy-

rus and Darius issued decrees granting

the Jews permission to return to their

homeland; but the number of exiles who

availed themselves of this oportunity was

disappointingly small. More than fifty

years elapsed, and as the narrative of the

book of Esther opens, Mordecai, a Benja-

mite, is a trusty employee at

the

Persian

court in Shushan.

[ 32

Esther Becomes Queen

When Queen Vashti was de-

posed from her royal throne, what

method was used to select a new

queen? Esther 2:1-4.

NOTE.—King Ahasuerus of the book of

Esther was the son of Darius the Great,

and is known in secular history as Xerxes.

Among the other maidens

brought to the court, what Jewish

girl was presented? Esther 2:5-7.

NOTE.—Hadassah (meaning "myrtle")

was an orphan girl who was adopted and

reared by her cousin Mordecai. Her name

Esther (probably from a Persian word

meaning "star") was doubtless given her

at the time she was presented at the royal

palace.

How did the king receive and

honor Esther? Esther 2:16-18.

NoTE.—On the occasion of Esther's coro-

nation, the king "made a release to the

provinces," remitting to them the usual

levy of tribute. Also according to the Per-

sian custom, Esther would receive as her

personal allowance one tenth of all fines

collected by the king.

Even though elevated to become

queen of the realm, how did Esther

still regard Mordecai? Esther 2:20.

NoTE.—This cordial relationship between

Esther and her foster father is an eloquent

tribute to the happy, congenial home life

Mordecai had provided for his adopted

daughter. In this delightful environment

Esther had developed beauty of character

as well as beauty of appearance. "Happy

the home where parental authority is bal-

anced with respect for the individuality of

its youth, where parental control is ex-

ercised with the objective of developing

self-control. Like Esther, such youth leave

home with well-balanced personalities and

disciplined characters."—S.D.A.

Bible Com-

mentary,

on Esther 2:20.

Haman's Plot

After Haman had been advanced

to the position of prime minister,

what attitude did Mordecai pursue?

Esther 3:1-4.

NOTE.—"Through Haman, . . .

Satan

worked at this time to counterwork the

purposes of God. Haman cherished bitter

malice against Mordecai, a Jew. Morde-

cai had done Haman no harm, but had

simply refused to show him worshipful

reverence."—Prophets and Kings,

page 600.

What wicked plot did Haman

conceive, and what was the king's re-

action to it? Esther 3:5-11.

NoTE.—To secure the king's assent to

this diabolical scheme, Haman offered to

pay ten thousand talents of silver, or about

$6,350,000, into the government treasury;

but the king appears to have refused the

bribe. "Little did the king realize the far-

reaching results that would have accom-

panied the complete carrying out of this

decree. Satan himself, the hidden insti-

gator of the scheme, was trying to rid the

earth of those who preserved the knowledge

of the true

God."—Prophets and Kings,

pages 600, 601.

When this edict was published

in Shushan and throughout the em-

pire, what demonstration took place

among the Jews? Esther 4:1-3.

Facing

the Crisis

After Esther and her cousin

had

communicated with each other con-

cerning this crisis, what message

did

Mordecai send to the queen? Esther

4:13, 14.

[ 33 ]

NOTE.—"Mordecai perceived the out-

working of Divine Providence. Perhaps no

more dramatic challenge to courage, loyalty,

and self-sacrifice ever confronted a repre-

sentative of the kingdom of heaven. But

the challenge to us today is no less im-

perative and no less

real."—S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

on Esther 4:14.

Facing this dramatic moment

with heaven-born courage, how did

Esther reply? Esther 4:15-17.

NorE.—"The crisis that Esther faced de-

manded quick, earnest action; but both

she and Mordecai realized that unless God

should work mightily in their behalf, their

own efforts would be unavailing. So Esther

took time for communion with God, the

source of her strength."—Prophets

and

Kings,

page 601.

10.

How did Esther approach the

king, and what invitation did she ex-

tend? Esther 5:1-8.

Norr.—In all this Esther displays mar-

velous courage, tact, and resourcefulness.

Instead of immediately approaching the

king with her great request, she does not

divulge the purpose of her coming. Once

before she had warned the king of a plot

against his life (Esther 2:21-23) ; now he

must realize that it was a vital life-and-

death matter, else she would not have

risked her life by coming uninvited into the

royal presence.

11.

Tell briefly of the king's sleep-

less night, and of the events of the

following day. Esther 6:1-14.

NorE.—While the book of Esther makes

no mention of God, it nevertheless portrays

those marvelous divine providences that

reveal an omnipotent overruling Hand in

the affairs of men.

The Miraculous Deliverance

12.

Describe the second banquet

and the fateful outcome to Haman.

Esther 7:1-10.

NorE.—For two days Esther had held the

king in suspense regarding her request,

while preparing him for the real shock.

Now he presses the question for the third

time. At last her lips are unsealed, and

from this timid, retiring young woman there

flashes forth her impassioned denunciation

of Haman's monstrous plot. She declares,

"We are sold," and uses the very words of

the infamous decree—"destroy," "kill," and

"perish"—with telling effect.

The gallows "fifty cubits high" (about

eighty-six feet) that Haman had prepared

for Mordecai, is now used for his own ex-

ecution. All the people of Shushan could

thus witness his inglorious end.

13.

To what position was Morde-

cai then promoted, and what decree

was issued? Esther 8:1-14.

NOTE.—The purpose of this decree was

to countermand the former edict of exter-

mination. It did not delegate authority to

the Jews to destroy their enemies, but

simply to stand in their own defense.

"On the day appointed for their destruc-

tion, 'the Jews gathered themselves to-

gether in their cities: . . . and no man

could withstand them; for the fear of them

fell upon all people.' Angels that excel in

strength had been commissioned by God

to protect His people while they 'stood for

their

lives.'"—Prophets and Kings,

page

602.

14.

What was the effect of this

proclamation? Esther 8:16, 17; 9:17,

26-28.

NorE.—The thirteenth day of the twelfth

month, that was to witness the com-

plete annihilation of the Jews, was turned

to a day of deliverance and gladness. Ha-

man had cast lots, or "Pur," to determine

the auspicious day for the wholesale de-

struction•

so the Jews adopted the word

"Purim" for the day of their great celebra-

tion, and this feast is still observed by

Jews throughout the world.

Thoughts for Meditation

"The trying experiences that came to

God's people in the days of Esther were not

peculiar to that age alone. . . . The decree

that will finally go forth against the rem-

nant people of God will be very similar to

that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews.

Today the enemies of the true church see in

the little company keeping the Sabbath

commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The

reverence of God's people for His law is a

constant rebuke to those who have cast off

the fear of the Lord and are trampling on

His Sabbath. . . . On this battlefield will

he fought the last great conflict in the con-

troversy between truth and error. And we

are not left in doubt as to the issue. Today,

as in the days of Esther and Mordecai, the

Lord will vindicate His truth and His

peo-

ple."-Prophets and Kings,

pages 605, 606.

Do I realize that as one of God's rem-

nant people, I have "come to the kingdom

for such a time as this"?

"The words of Mordecai to Esther may

apply to the men and youth of today."-

Testimonies, vol.

5, p. 321.

Lesson 11, for September 15, 1962

Mary, the Mother of Jesus

MEMORY VERSE:

"And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit

hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For He hath regarded the low estate of His

handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me

blessed." Luke 1:46-48.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 44, 50-58, 80-83, 144-147, 751, 752

(Christian Home Library ed., pp. 23, 27-34, 54-58, 119-122,

741,

742);

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



❑

Monday: Questions 5-8; begin read-

ing Study Helps.



❑

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions 9, 10; read



further from Study Helps.



❑



Wednesday: Questions 11-13.



❑

Thursday: Questions 14, 15; finish

reading Study Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Blessed Among Women

Gabriel's message. Luke 1:28-33.

The humble response. Luke 1:38.

Mary's song of praise. Luke

1:46-54.

Joseph's dream. Matt. 1:18-24.

II. To Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and

Egypt

The decree of Augustus Caesar.

Luke 2:1-5.

The birth of Jesus. Luke 2:6-16;

Matt. 1:25.

Presentation at the temple. Luke

2:22-24.

8. Two notable testimonies. Luke

2:25-38.

9. The flight to Egypt. Matt. 2:13-15.

10. The return to Nazareth. Matt.

2:19-23.

III. At the Passover and the Wedding

Feast

11.

A time of anxiety. Luke 2:41-45.

12. Mary's gentle rebuke. Luke 2:46-

51.

13. The marriage at Cana. John 2:1-5.

IV. Calvary and the Upper Room

14. Standing near the cross. John

19:25-27.

15. At the memorable prayer .meeting.

Acts 1:14.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Providence had directed the movements

of nations, and the tide of human impulse

and influence, until the world was ripe for

the coming of the Deliverer. The nations

were united under one government. One

language was widely spoken, and was every-

where recognized as the language of lit-

erature. . . . At this time the systems of

heathenism were losing their hold upon the

people. Men were weary of pageant and

fable."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 32.

Oppression and corruption were well-nigh

universal. Society was at its lowest ebb.

"Sin had become a science, and vice was

consecrated as a part of religion."

Then "the fullness of time was come,"

the times foretold by holy prophets of old,

and Gabriel, the same mighty angel who

had appeared to Daniel centuries before,

visited a virtuous young woman in the ob-

scure little town of Nazareth to inform her

that she was to be highly favored above

every other woman on the face of the earth.

Blessed Among Women

What extraordinary and star-

tling message did Gabriel bring to

Mary? Luke 1:28-33.

NoTE.—Although the parents of Mary

are not mentioned, it is known that she

was of the house and lineage of David. See

Rom. 1:3;

The Desire of Ages,

page 44.

Many believe that the genealogy as re-

corded in Luke 3 is that of Mary, while the

one given in Matthew 1 traces the ancestry

of Joseph.

After Mary had been informed

concerning the miraclous conception,

what was her humble response?

Luke

1:38.

NoTE.—She feels altogether unworthy;

yet if one of such lowly estate should be

the recipient of so great a gift and honor,

she will be meekly resigned to the will of

God. What a remarkable instance of beau-

tiful, simple, and childlike trust!

While Mary was visiting her rel-

ative, Elisabeth, in Judea, what song

of praise did she sing? Luke 1:46-54.

NoTE.—"The gift of inspiration now

seems to fall upon Mary, who speaks forth

in calm and majestic strains. Every idea,

even her very words, reflect what inspired

men had written in times past. The song

of Mary (vs. 46-55) is considered one of

the most sublime hymns in all sacred liter-

ature, a lyric of exquisite beauty worthy of

Mary's ancestor David."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on Luke 1:46.

The two devoted women—Elisabeth, to

become the mother of John the Baptist,

and Mary, to be the mother of Jesus—

evidently enjoyed blessed communion to-

gether during the three months' visit. See

Luke 1:56.

At about this time, what rare ex-

perience came to Joseph? Matt. 1:

18-24.

NOTE.—The marvelous prophecy of the

virgin birth given more than seven cen-

turies previously was about to be fulfilled.

To Bethlehem, Jerusalem,

and Egypt

Relate the circumstances that

brought Joseph and Mary to Bethle-

hem. Luke 2:1-5.

NoTE.—This imperial decree, together

with the fact that at this time Cyrenius

was governor of Syria, helps to establish

the date of the visit to Bethlehem.

While Joseph and Mary were

lodged in a stable at Bethlehem, what

sublime and glorious events occurred?

Luke 2:6-16; Matt. 1:25.

[36]

NOTE.—"By His humanity, Christ touched

humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold

upon the throne of God. As the Son of

man, He gave us an example of obedience;

as the. Son of God, He gives us power to

obey. It was Christ who from the bush

on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, 'I

AM THAT I AM..



' So when He

came 'in the likeness of men,' He declared

Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethle-

hem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God

'manifest in the flesh.' 1 Timothy 3:16.

And to us He says: 'I AM the Good Shep-

herd.' I AM the living Bread.' I AM the

Way, the Truth, and the Life.' . . . 'God

with us' is the surety of our deliverance

from sin, the assurance of our power to

obey the law of heaven. . . .

"In Christ the family of earth and the

family of heaven are bound together. Christ

glorified is our brother. Heaven is en-

shrined in humanity, and humanity is en-

folded in the bosom of Infinite Love."—

The Desire of Ages,

pages 24-26.

When the parents of Jesus vis-

ited the temple for the presentation

of the Christ child, what act reveals

their poverty? Luke 2:22-24.

NOTE.—"Joseph and Mary were poor;

and when they came with their Child, the

priests saw only a man and woman dressed

as Galileans, and in the humblest garments.

There was nothing in their appearance to

attract attention, and they presented only

the offering made by the poorer classes."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 52.

While the family was still in the

temple, what two notable testimonies

were given concerning Jesus? Luke

2:25-38.

NOTE.—"The spirit of prophecy was

upon this man of God, and while Joseph

and Mary stood by, wondering at his

words, he blessed them. . . .

"Anna also, a prophetess, came in and

confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning

Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted

up with the glory of God, and she poured

out her heartfelt thanks that she had

been permitted to behold Christ the Lord."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 55.

Following the visit of the wise

men, where were Joseph and Mary

directed to seek refuge for Jesus?

Matt. 2:13-15.

NOTE.—Of the wise man it is written:

"Beneath the lowly guise of Jesus, they

recognized the presence of Divinity. They

gave their hearts to Him as their Saviour,

and then poured out their gifts. . . .

"And through the gifts of the Magi from

heathen country, the Lord supplied the

means for the journey into Egypt and the

sojourn in a land of strangers."—The

De-

sire of Ages,

pages 63, 65.

10.

After the death of Herod where

did the family establish their home?

Matt. 2:19-23.

At the Passover and the

Wedding Feast

11.

When Jesus was twelve years

of age, where did He go with His

parents, and what circumstances

brought them great distress of mind?

Luke 2:41-45.

12.

When Mary found her Son,

what conversation took place? Luke

2:46-51.

NOTE.—Again the statement is made that

Mary "kept all these sayings in her heart."

"While she believed that her child was to

be Israel's Messiah, she did not compre-

hend His mission."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 82.

13.

At the marriage feast in Cana,

when the supply of wine was ex-

hausted what appeal did Mary make

to Jesus? What instruction did she

give to the servants? John 2:1-5.

]

NoTE.—"It was to honor Mary's trust,

and to strengthen the faith of His disciples,

that the first miracle was performed."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 147.

The Scripture narrative reveals that

Mary felt and shared a deep interest in

the ministry of Christ; but her name is not

again mentioned in any of the four Gospels.

Calvary and the Upper Room

14. As Christ was making His su-

preme sacrifice, who stood near the

cross, and what provision did He

make for His widowed mother? John

19:25-27.

NOTE.—"As the eyes of Jesus wandered

over the multitude about Him, one figure

arrested His attention. At the foot of the

cross stood His mother, supported by the

disciple John. She could not endure to

remain away from her Son; and John,

knowing that the end was near, had brought

her again to the cross. . . . John under-

stood Christ's words, and accepted the

trust. He at once took Mary to his home,

and from that hour cared for her ten-

derly. . . .

"The perfect example of Christ's filial

love shines forth with undimmed luster

from the mist of ages. For nearly thirty

years Jesus by His daily toil had helped

bear the burdens of the home. And now,

even in His last agony, He remembers to

provide for His sorrowing, widowed

mother."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 752.

15. On what occasion is Mary last

mentioned in Scripture? Acts 1:14.

NoTE.—In the Gospel story, the first

reference to Mary was on that notable day

of Gabriel's visit in old Nazareth; her last

appearance in Scripture is while attending

the memorable prayer meeting in the upper

room that preceded the outpouring of the

Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.

According to tradition, Mary spent her

closing years in the home of John the be-

loved in Ephesus, but this lacks valid his-

torical confirmation.

Thoughts for Meditation

"By one day's neglect they [Joseph and

Mary] lost the Saviour; but it cost them

three days of anxious search to find Him.

So with us; by idle talk, evilspeaking, or

neglect of prayer, we may in one day lose

the Saviour's presence, and it may take

many days of sorrowful search to find Him,

and regain the peace that we have lost."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 83.

SOUND LESSONS FOR THE BLIND

Free taped senior Sabbath school lessons are now available

for the blind. For further information write to: Christian Record,

Tape Department, Box 3666, Lincoln, Nebraska. Inform your

blind relatives or friends immediately. This is a real opportunity

for them to enjoy the weekly Sabbath school lessons.

Lesson 12, for September 22, 1962

Mary and Martha

MEMORY VERSE:

"But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part,

which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:42.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 524-533, 557-568, 788-793 (Christian

Home Library ed., pp. 507-516, 539-551, 777-781); "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

ta ry."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check

Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.

❑

Sunday:



Questions 1-3.

❑

Monday:



Questions 4-7.

❑

Tuesday:



Questions 8-11; begin

Check Here

reading Study Helps.

Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read

further from Study Helps.



Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday:

Review

entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Early Contacts With Mary and

Martha

Demons cast out. Luke 8:1, 2.

Christ visits Bethany. Luke 10:

38-40.

The one thing needful. Luke

10:41, 42.

II. Sickness and Death of Lazarus

4. The sisters send for Jesus. John

11:1-3.

5 Jesus talks with Martha. John

11:20-27.

6. Jesus

talks with

Mary. John

11:32-35.

7. Believing Jews come to Mary. John

11:44, 45.

III. At the Feast of Simon the Pharisee

8. Mary's memorable act. John 12:

1-3; Matt. 26:6, 7; Mark 14:3.

9. Disapproval of Judas and others.

John 12:4-6; Matt. 26:8, 9.

10. Christ's commendation. Mark

14:6-9.

11. Simon's criticism-Jesus' reply.

Luke 7:39-47.

IV. The Resurrection Morning

12. Mary at the sepulcher. Matt. 28:1;

Mark 16:1, 2; John 20:1, 2.

13. Jesus greets Mary. John 20:11-17.

14. Mary reports the good tidings. John

20:18.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Among the most steadfast of Christ's

disciples was Lazarus of Bethany. . . .

"At the home of Lazarus, Jesus had

often found rest. The Saviour had no home

of His own; He was dependent on the

hospitality of His friends and disciples, and

often, when weary, thirsting for human fel-

lowship, He had been glad to escape to this

peaceful household, away from the suspi-

cion and jealousy of the angry Pharisees.

Here He found a sincere welcome, and

pure, holy friendship. Here he could speak

with simplicity and perfect freedom."-The

Desire of Ages,

page 524.

[ 39 I

Early Contacts With Mary

and Martha

Under what circumstances does

Mary Magdalene first appear in the

Gospel story? Luke 8:1, 2.

NoTE.—"Mary had been looked upon as

a great sinner, but Christ knew the cir-

cumstances that had shaped her life. He

might have extinguished every spark of

hope in her soul, but He did not. It was

He who had lifted her from despair and

ruin. Seven times she had heard His re-

buke of the demons that controlled her

heart and mind. She had heard His strong

cries to the Father in her behalf. . . .

"When to human eyes her case appeared

hopeless, Christ saw in Mary capabilities

for good. He saw the better traits of her

character."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 568.

Chapter 62 of

The Desire of Ages

identi-

fies Mary Magdalene with Mary of Beth-

any. When Christ first met her, it appears

that she was living for a time in northern

Palestine. See

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

vol.

5, pp. 764, 765.

On the occasion of Christ's first

visit to the home of Lazarus and his

sisters, what protest did Martha make?

Luke 10: 38-40.

NOTE.—"This was the time of Christ's

first visit to Bethany. The Saviour and

His disciples had just made the toilsome

journey on foot from Jericho. Martha was

anxious to provide for their comfort, and

in her anxiety she forgot the courtesy due

to her Guest."—The

Desire of Ages,

page

525.

What was Christ's kindly reply?

Luke 10:41, 42.

Nora.—"The 'one thing' that Martha

needed was a calm, devotional spirit. . . .

There is a wide field for the Marthas, with

their zeal in active religious work. But let

them first sit with Mary at the feet of

Jesus."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 525.

Sickness and Death of Lazarus

When Lazarus became ill, what

message did Martha and Mary send to

Jesus? John 11:1-3.

When Christ arrived at Bethany,

what conversation took place between

Martha and her Saviour? John 11:

20-27.

With what words did Mary greet

her Lord, and how did He express His

deep sympathy? John 11:32-35.

NOTE.—"Lazarus had been much beloved.

. . . 'Jesus wept.' . . .

"It was not only because of the scene be-

fore Him that Christ wept. . . . Looking

down the years to come, He saw the suf-

fering and sorrow, tears and death, that

were to be the lot of men. His heart was

pierced with the pain of the human family

of all ages and in all lands. The woes of

the sinful race were heavy upon His soul,

and the fountain of His tears was broken

up as He longed to relieve all their dis-

tress."—The

Desire of Ages,

pages 533, 534.

What effect did the resurrection

of Lazarus have upon many of Mary's

friends? John 11:44, 45.

NOTE.—The raising of Lazarus had a

good effect upon many of Mary's friends

who had come from Jerusalem to comfort

her. They were convinced by Jesus' miracle

and "believed on Him."

At the Feast of Simon the Pharisee

Who were present at Simon's

feast, and what memorable act did

Mary perform? John 12:1-3; Matt.

26:6, 7; Mark 14:3.

[ 40

NOTE.—"In His mercy, Jesus bad par-

doned her [Mary's] sins, He had called

forth her beloved brother from the grave,

and Mary's heart was filled with gratitude.

She had heard Jesus speak of His approach-

ing death, and in her deep love and sorrow

she had longed to show Him honor. At

great personal sacrifice she had purchased

an alabaster box of 'ointment of spikenard,

very costly,' with which to anoint His

body. But now many were declaring that

He was about to be crowned king. Her

grief was turned to joy, and she was eager

to be first in honoring her Lord."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 559.

How did Judas and certain oth-

ers regard this act? John 12:4-6;

Matt. 26:8, 9.

10.

With what words of approval

did Christ commend Mary? Mark 14:

6-9.

NoTE.—"As far as the gospel extended,

Mary's gift would shed its fragrance, and

hearts would be blessed through her un-

studied act. Kingdoms would rise and fall;

the names of monarchs and conquerors

would be forgotten; but this woman's deed

would be immortalized upon the pages of

sacred history. Until time should be no

more, that broken alabaster box would tell

the story of the abundant love of God for

a fallen race."—The

Desire of Ages,

page

563.

11.

What did Simon think about

Mary's deed, and what was the Mas-

ter's reply to his unspoken criticism?

Luke 7:39-47.

NorE.—Simon the leper, who had also

been guilty of grave sins, had been healed

by Jesus. See

The Desire of Ages,

page

566.

"Simon felt himself more righteous than

Mary, and Jesus desired him to see how

great his guilt really was. He would show

him that his sin was greater than hers, as

much greater as a debt of five hundred

pence exceeds a debt of fifty pence.

"Simon now began to see himself in a

new light. He saw how Mary was regarded

by One who was more than a prophet. He

saw that with keen prophetic eye Christ

read her heart of love and devotion. Shame

seized upon him, and he realized that he

was in the presence of One superior to

himself."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 567.

The Resurrection Morning

12.

Early on the first day of the

week following the crucifixion, who

came to Christ's sepulcher, and what

did Mary do? Matt. 28:1; Mark 16:1,

2; John 20: 1, 2.

NoTE.—Only six days after Mary had

anointed Jesus' feet, expecting that He

would soon be crowned king, she stood

with other women at the cross of the dy-

ing Saviour. See John 19:25. All hope was

crushed; yet they would anoint the body

of Him they supremely loved. "The women

had not all come to the tomb from the

same direction. Mary Magdalene was the

first to reach the place; and upon seeing

that the stone was removed, she hurried

away to tell the disciples."—The

Desire of

Ages,

page 788.

13.

Returning to the tomb, what

marvelous experience was granted to

Mary? John 20:11-17.

14.

After this interview with Jesus,

what did Mary do? John 20:18.

NOTE.—"When Mary Magdalene told

them she had seen the Lord, she repeated

the call to the meeting in Galilee."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 793. This was the last

recorded act in the life of Mary.

Thoughts for Meditation

Is it not most remarkable that a person

who in her early life was so great a sinner

should be the one to whom Christ first ap-

[41]

peared after His resurrection? Yet it was

just like Jesus. He can forgive the darkest

blot on a human life. He is able to save

unto the uttermost.

Mary anointed the living Christ. The

other women who prepared spices and oint-

ment after His death were too late. While

our loved ones are still with us, let us

break our alabaster boxes of love. Let us

"give them roses now."

Tape-recorded mission appeals for the Thirteenth Sabbath

projects are available for offering promotion in the Sab-

bath school. Order through your Book and Bible House.

Lesson 13, for September 29, 1962

Women of the Early Church

MEMORY VERSE:

"There was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which

by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and

almsdeeds which she did." Acts 9:36.

STUDY HELPS: "The Acts

of the Apostles," pages 70-76, 131, 132, 203, 243, 269,

270; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-

duction and survey of the

lesson.

Sunday: Questions 1-3.

Monday: Questions 4-6.

Tuesday: Questions 7-9; begin

Check Here

reading from Study Helps.

Wednesday: Questions 10-14.

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Piety and Dishonesty

the prayer meeting in the upper

room. Acts 1:14.

A deceptive scheme. Acts 5 : 1, 2.

Swift retribution. Acts 5:3-10.

II. Christianity in Action

Death of a noted welfare worker.

Acts 9:36, 37.

The church sends for Peter. Acts

9:38, 39.

Dorcas restored to life. Acts

9:40-42.

III. Women Who Ministered

Mary, the mother of John Mark.

Acts 12:12.

The conversion of Lydia. Acts

16:11-14.

Entertaining the evangelists. Acts

16:15.

IV. Fellow Workers in Christ

10.

Companions of like craft. Acts

18:1-3.

11.

Journeying to Ephesus. Acts

18:18, 19.

12.

Teaching the distinguished Apollos.

Acts 18:24-26.

13.

Priscilla and husband highly com-

mended. Rom. 16:3, 4.

14.

Cited for their piety and zeal.

Rom. 16:1, 2; Phil. 4:3 ; 2 Tim. 1:5.

42]

THE LESSON

Introduction

With the birth of Christianity, woman-

hood was elevated to a new and hitherto

unforeseen status. On some of His evange-

listic tours Jesus was accompanied by

women workers. As a result of His con-

versation with a woman at Jacob's well a

religious awakening occurred in Samaria;

and His visits at the home in Bethany have

brought inspiration to unnumbered Marthas

and Marys.

In the New Testament church there was

Dorcas, noted for her tireless labors on

behalf of the poor; Lydia, a business-

woman who helped to establish the first

Christian church in Europe; Priscilla, a

self-supporting worker who gave spiritual

instruction to the mighty Apollos; Phebe,

who was a pillar in the church at Cen-

chrea; and others designated by Paul as

"those women who labored with me in the

gospel." The record of these zealous souls

enshrined in Holy Writ continues to ra-

diate their influence for good and to inspire

the noblest and best in Christian woman-

hood.

Piety and Dishonesty

Following the ascension of

Christ, in what spiritual devotion did

certain Christian women participate?

Acts 1:14.

NOTE.—Included in this group were

doubtless the women who ministered with

Jesus, together with the wives of the dis-

ciples. Here Mary, the mother of Jesus,

is mentioned in Scripture for the last time.

It is also worthy of note that this gathering

in the "upper room" was the celebrated

prayer meeting that preceded Pentecost.

In the early days of Christianity

what woman conspired with her hus-

band to attempt to deceive the church

leaders? Acts 5:1, 2.

NoTE.—"Ananias and Sapphira had made

a pledge to give to the Lord the proceeds

from the sale of certain property." Yet

"they deliberately decided to sell their

property and pretend to give all the pro-

ceeds into the general fund, but really to

keep a large share for themselves. Thus

they would secure their living from the

common store and at the same time gain

the high esteem of their brethren."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 72.

As a result of their falsehood

and hypocrisy, what swift and terrible

recompense did they receive? Acts

3-10.

NOTE.—"Infinite Wisdom saw that this

signal manifestation of the wrath of God

was necessary to guard the young church

from becoming demoralized. . .

"The hearts of men become hardened

through selfishness, and, like Ananias and

Sapphira, they are tempted to withhold

part of the price, while pretending to ful-

fill God's requirements. . . . They forget

that God will one day demand a strict ac-

count of how His goods have been used,

and that He will no more accept the pit-

tance they hand into the treasury than He

accepted the offering of Ananias and Sap-

phira."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages

73, 75.

Christianity in Action

What pious woman resided at

Joppa, and how was her work inter-

rupted? Acts 9:36, 37.

NOTE.—"Tabitha" is an Aramaic name,

similar to the Hebrew. The Greek form is

"Dorcas," both names signifying "gazelle"

or "doe;" and the giving of the name in two

languages may imply that there were both

Hebrew and Greek (or Hellenic) members

in the church at Joppa.

It is believed that the church at this place

was raised up by Philip the evangelist; and

since he was one of the original seven dea-

cons of the church at Jerusalem, it would

be natural for him to make wise provision

for the poor and the widows. In that

church Dorcas may have served as a reg-

[

ularly chosen deaconess. Compare Acts 6:

1-5; 8:40.

"She [Dorcas] was a worthy disciple of

Jesus, and her life was filled with acts of

kindness. She knew who needed comfort-

able clothing and who needed sympathy,

and she freely ministered to the poor and

the sorrowful. Her skillful fingers were

more active than her tongue."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

page 131.

Realizing their great loss, what

did the church at Joppa do, and how

did Peter respond? Acts 9:38, 39.

Nom.—Lydda was ten miles distant from

Joppa; yet since custom required that there

should be no long delay between death and

burial, the church made urgent request for

Peter to come immediately.

"In view of the life of service that Dor-

cas had lived, it is little wonder that they

mourned, that warm teardrops fell upon

the inanimate clay."—The

Acts of the Apos-

tles,

page 132.

In what miraculous way did God

honor Peter's prayer of faith? Acts

9:40-42.

NOTE.—"The brief description of Dor-

cas's restoration is extraordinarily vivid.

There is the opening of the eyes, as after

sleep; the unexpected sight of Peter, who

was probably unknown to her; and the

dramatic sitting up of one who had been

dead."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Acts

9:40.

"Dorcas had been of great service to the

church, and God saw fit to bring her back

from the land of the enemy, that her skill

and energy might still be a blessing to

others, and also that by this manifestation

of His power the cause of Christ might be

strengthened."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 132.

Women Who Ministered

Whose hospitable home became

a meeting place for the believers in

Jerusalem? Acts 12:12.

Nom.—Mary, the mother of John Mark,

was a sister or cousin of Barnabas. See

Col. 4:10; compare translations of K.J.V.

and R.S.V. Like Barnabas, she apparently

possessed some wealth, and her home was

large enough to serve as a rendezvous for

members of the early Christian church.

During Paul's first evangelistic

effort in Europe, what devout woman

was among the first converts to Chris-

tianity? Acts 16:11-14.

Nom.—Of the group of worshipers by

the riverside Lydia appears to have been

a prominent member. The city of Thya-

tira in Asia Minor was famous for its dye

works. Lydia as a prosperous business-

woman was a distributor of the purple cloth

imported from that city. Others who may

have been charter members of the church

at Philippi are mentioned by Paul in Philip-

pians 4:2, 3.

Following the baptism of Lydia

and other members of her household,

what urgent and generous invitation

did she extend? Acts 16:15.

NOTE.—There were at

least

four mem-

bers of the evangelistic group—Paul, Silas,

Timothy, and Luke. Lydia's desire to en-

tertain this entire company for an indefinite

period indicates that she must have been

'a woman of some means. It also testifies

eloquently of her love for Christ and the

gospel.

Fellow Workers in Christ

10.

Upon Paul's first visit to Cor-

nth, what congenial companions did

he find, and in what work did they

all engage? Acts 18:1-3.

11.

After a long successful gospel

effort in Corinth, where did Paul go,

and who accompanied him? Acts 18:

18, 19.

[ 44 3

NoTE.—The fact that Priscilla's name is

here mentioned before her husband's, as

also in Romans 16:3 and 2 Timothy 4:19,

doubtless indicates that she was a woman

of culture and education, and qualified in

soul-winning endeavor. These devoted,

loyal, self-supporting workers are to be

commended for their zeal for soulsaving.

Their names always appear together,

whether in tentmaking or in missionary

activity.

12.

When the distinguished Apol-

los visited Ephesus, what special priv-

ilege was accorded to Priscilla and

Aquila? Acts 18:24-26.

NOTE.—"Through their teaching he ob-

tained a clearer understanding of the Scrip-

tures and became one of the ablest advo-

cates of the Christian faith."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

page 270.

13.

With what words of commen-

dation did Paul later express his high

appreciation for the labors of Pris-

cilla and her husband? Rom. 16:3, 4.

NOTE.—Just when these faithful workers

risked their lives for Paul is not known. It

may have been during the attack of the

Jews at Corinth, or during the uproar at

Ephesus. See Acts 18:12-16 ; 19:29-40.

14.

Among other women of the

early church, mention some who were

especially cited for their piety and

zeal. Rom. 16:1, 2; Phil. 4:3; 2 Tim.

1:5.

Thoughts for Meditation

"In the case of Ananias and Sapphira,

the sin of fraud against God was speedily

punished. . . . But though it may not be

attended by the visible manifestation of

God's displeasure, it is no less heinous in

His sight now than in the apostles' time."

—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 76.

"He who utters untruths sells his soul in

a cheap market."—Ibid.

In resurrecting an outstanding welfare

worker of New Testament times, God

placed His supreme seal of approval upon

this self-sacrificing ministry. Who can esti-

mate the number of needles set in motion

and the vast multitudes helped, because of

the worthy example of tireless, loving, dedi-

cated Dorcas!

The "unfeigned faith," without pretense

or show, that molded the lives of grand-

mother Lois and mother Eunice, was repro-

duced, under God, in the sterling character

of youthful Timothy. Fathers, mothers,

and young people, God grant to us each

that priceless gem of an unsullied faith!

Her example is still being followed today.

[

4s]

trim

is the time for

SOUL UJI11111116:

THROUGH BRIEN SHBOTH SCHOOLS

Join one of the most pleasant and most productive programs of mass

evangelism.



Everything needed for conducting Branch Sabbath

Schools is all prepared

for

you.

BIBLE

SCHOOL MANUAL

BIBLE SCHOOL

TEACHER GUIDES

HELPFUL SUGGESTIVE

PROGRAM MATERIAL

LESSON ACTIVITY BOOK

FOR THE CHILDREN

ORDER THE BRANCH SABBATH SCHOOL KIT FROM YOUR BOOK

AND BIBLE HOUSE

ur Conference Sabbath School

Secretary is ready to help you organize more Branch Sabbath Schools.

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

September 29, 1962

Central European Division

The articles in the

Missions Quarterly

this quarter present some of

the tragic needs of our churches and believers in Germany. War not

only took its toll in destroyed homes and church buildings, but it also

brought much hardship and financial difficulties to our believers.

Since the war our believers have had to meet in attics, in out-of-the-

way places, and often in crowded rooms in their own homes. Such

conditions greatly hinder the advance of the message in Germany.

Very few church groups have sufficient and proper church facilities.

Many meet in cold, dark, uninviting places. May our hearts go out in

behalf of the needs of our fellow believers in this needy field. With

proper help it can easily become a strong base and, as formerly, be

able to send forth its young people to mission fields.

It is our privilege this quarter to help the leaders in that field to

build churches, and especially to build a representative church in the

city of Cologne on the Rhine River.

LESSONS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, 1962

Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior

Lesson Quarterly

for the fourth quarter of 1962 will be helped by the following outline in study-

ing the first lesson. The title of the lessons for the quarter is "Prayer and Vic-

torious Living." The title of the first lesson is "The Mighty Conqueror." The

memory verse is 1 John 3:8. The texts to be studied are as follows:

Ques. 1. John 8:44.

Ques. 2. Isa. 14:12-14.

Ques. 3. Rev. 12:7-9; Luke 10:18;

John 12:31.

Ques. 4. Rev. 12:9, 10.

Ques. 5. Mark 1:12, 13 ; Heb. 4:15.

Ques. 6. John 19:30.

Ques. 7. Matt. 28:5-7.

Ques. 8. 1 John 3:8; 2 Peter 3:11-13.

Ques. 9. Eph. 6:12, 13.

Ques. 10. 2 Cor. 2:11.

Ques. 11.1 Peter 5:8.

Ques. 12. Rev. 12:17.

Ques. 13. Gen. 3:15.

Ques. 14. Rev. 20:9, 10; Matt. 25:41.

[ 47 ]

•

wen

Bremen

„

. • s'

•

anover

•

EVANGELISTIC

CENTER

Dusseldorf

..../

Cologne •

Bonn •

•

••••

Leipzig

•

} Frankfurt

Darmstadt •

Main

•

Numbers

Stuttgart

•

Danube

CENTRAL EUROPEAN DIVISION

Unions

Poisnintino

Cedes

Gina

lAnnilorrn

tinttiri

EAST GERMAN UNION CONF.

18,403,800

382

16526

17,588

SOUTH GERMAN UNION CONF.

26.352,009

237

11,961

13,870

WEST GERMAN UNION CONF.

29,850,000

232

13,254

—

14,676

Division Totak

—

851

.....—

46.134

74,605,800

41,741